By Sunday Agunbiade
The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde has commended the Board of Nigeria Football Federation, NFF and Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL on the rising global brand of the elite league.
Makinde made the remarks during the 81st Annual General Assembly of Nigeria Football Federation held on Saturday, 27th September, 2025 at Professor Ogunlesi Hall, opposite University College Hospital, Ibadan.
He said he was surprised to see some massive away victories in recent years unlike the hitherto home dominance he used to witness.
“Since the inception of the present board of Nigeria Football Federation, I have been noticing that any team can win anywhere in the league. It is not as we used to experience where home teams were always favoured to win.
“This is a plus to this administration and what this means is that the Nigerian league brand is gradually meeting the global standard.”
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) is witnessing a significant reduction in the “must-win-at-home syndrome,” with a notable decrease in home victories and a rise in away successes, which is seen as a positive sign for the league’s credibility and attractiveness.
This trend is attributed to improved refereeing, prompt payment of match indemnities.
The issue had historically plagued the league, leading to a lack of competitiveness and poor fans turnout, however, recent seasons have shown a shift towards a fairer competition.
Factors contributing to the decline of the Must Win at Home Syndrome include:
Improved Officiating:
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and NPFL have been working to ensure fair and firm refereeing, which are helping curtail clubs from unduly influencing match outcomes.
The Gbenga Elegbeleye led NPFL board received plaudits for implementing changes to address issues preventing clubs from having total control over referees.
GTI rather than the NPFL has been persistently paying referees indemnities and whoever falls short of the standard pays through their nose.
“However, it’s important for the management of the league to seek more corporate sponsors to enable them stand financially on their feet,” Makinde submitted.
What Elegbeleye also brought to the league is Fairness and Safety. There is an increased emphasis on safety at match venues, with swift punishments for crowd troubles, making our stadiums safer for families and contributing to better atmosphere.
Increased Competitiveness:
A balanced home and away record creates a more competitive and unpredictable league.
Improved Fan Engagement:
Away victories are becoming more common, making the league more engaging and giving fans reasons to attend matches.
Enhanced Credibility:
The reduction in home advantage strengthens the league’s reputation and makes it more attractive to investors.
Declaring the AGA open, Governor Makinde said:
“It is my pleasure to declare the 2025 Annual General Assembly of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) which is holding in Ibadan today, open.
“I thank the NFF for their interest in Ibadan and Oyo State, and for giving us the opportunity to host the Nigeria vs Rwanda FIFA U-20 Women Qualifier match this evening.
“My administration has been working to develop the sports economy in our dear state, and I informed the NFF that we are interested in hosting bigger football matches in Ibadan and will put all in place to ensure that it happens.”
