Elegbeleye Backs Gusau, Hails NFF Congress Expansion as Progressive Move
Chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League and Second Vice President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Gbenga Elegbeleye, has praised NFF President Ibrahim Gusau for the decision to expand the Federation’s Congress, describing it as a bold and progressive step for Nigerian football.
Speaking in Abuja, Elegbeleye said the decision gives clubs a direct voice in football administration, a development he noted has been long overdue. Under the new structure, the NPFL will be represented by 10 delegates, with five drawn from the top five clubs at the end of the 2025/2026 season. The Nigeria National League and Nigeria Nationwide League One will also have two delegates each.
He explained that the top five NPFL clubs will earn voting rights at the NFF elections later this year, a system designed to deepen competitiveness and reward performance within the domestic league.
He acknowledged that while Nigeria narrowly missed out on World Cup qualification, the national teams have recorded notable progress under Gusau’s leadership. He cited the Super Eagles’ run to the Africa Cup of Nations final in Gusau’s first year in office, as well as a subsequent semi-final finish and bronze medal, as signs of steady improvement.
Elegbeleye also highlighted gradual gains in age-grade competitions and credited Gusau for laying a solid foundation for sustained growth, despite financial constraints.
According to him, Gusau’s rise through the ranks—from administrative roles to FA leadership and eventually NFF president—has equipped him with the experience and insight needed to reposition Nigerian football.
He further commended the support extended to domestic leagues, including the NPFL, Nigeria National League, Nigeria Nationwide League One and Nigeria Women Football League, describing it as a clear indication of a leader focused on grassroots development and youth empowerment.
“Gusau is committed to growth. With the structure being put in place and the backing for our leagues, Nigerian football can only move forward,” Elegbeleye said.
