NNL/ Prostar Award: Amokachi Harps On Improved Infrastructure
Former Nigerian international, Daniel Amokachi, has warned that efforts to improve the Nigeria National League (NNL) will amount to little without urgent investment in infrastructure, particularly playing pitches across league centres.
Amokachi spoke on Tuesday in Abuja after the NNL/Prostar/Sportslight Hub Awards for November, which recognise outstanding performances in Nigeria’s second-tier football league.
The former Super Eagles striker said that while reforms are ongoing, the condition of playing surfaces remains a major obstacle to the league’s development.
“Although the league continues to make progress, the condition of pitches remains a major challenge,” Amokachi said.
“There is still a lot to be done. Our pitches need to be improved. When you look at some of the pitches approved for the league, they are used mainly because there are no other options.”
According to him, the NNL serves as the foundation of Nigerian football and must offer a safe and professional environment where young players can properly develop their talents.
Amokachi, however, praised the monthly awards initiative, noting that recognising excellence helps motivate players and teams, while aligning the league with global best practices.
He acknowledged visible improvements in the competition, including an increase in away victories, higher goal tallies and improved prize money, all of which have made the league more attractive.
The former striker stressed that sustained growth of the NNL depends largely on sponsorship, adding that the league is moving in the right direction but needs stronger financial backing to consolidate its gains.
He also highlighted the role of the media in shaping the league’s image, urging balanced and consistent reporting as a way of attracting credible sponsors.
Amokachi lamented the absence of NNL players in the Super Eagles camp despite the abundance of talent in domestic football, attributing the situation to poor promotion and limited exposure for players at that level.
According to him, improved visibility would enhance recognition for players both locally and internationally.
He called for collective efforts by stakeholders to attract sponsors, noting that increased support would ease financial pressures on clubs and strengthen the league as a whole.
Amokachi further emphasised the importance of punctuality and discipline, urging strict adherence to match schedules, and noting that effective time management could significantly improve the organisation and professionalism of the league.
