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The recent exit of Nigeria’s U-20 team from the FIFA World Cup has once again reignited debates around the troubling state of football in the country.
While fans and analysts often blame coaching or fitness, a more insidious problem lies beneath the surface — the pervasive influence of compliment cards and godfatherism in the selection of national team players.
In the golden days of Nigerian football, players like Stephen Keshi, Mutiu Adepoju, Sunday Oliseh, Daniel Amokachi, Finidi George, Jay-Jay Okocha, Taribo West, and Rashidi Yekini were not only household names — they were symbols of pride, passion, and raw talent.
Their selection to the national team was largely based on merit, and their performance spoke for itself.
These were players who inspired generations and struck fear into the hearts of their opponents.
Fast forward to today, and the story is starkly different. The current crop of players, while no doubt talented, often seem unfamiliar to the public until a major tournament looms.
This isn’t necessarily due to a lack of skill or potential, but rather the opaque and compromised selection process that has taken root within the system.
The troubling trend of "compliment cards" — essentially letters of recommendation or influence from top officials or insiders — has replaced the once-meritocratic method of player selection. Instead of earning a call-up through talent, discipline, and hard work, many players now find their way into the national setup through connections.
This is where godfatherism comes into play. Powerful figures — be they football administrators, politicians, or influential agents — often wield undue influence over who makes the team.
This has fostered a culture of entitlement, where some players feel untouchable, and others are shut out regardless of performance.
The result of this compromised system is evident on the pitch. Nigeria’s teams, across age levels, have struggled with consistency, cohesion, and hunger.
The passion and fighting spirit that once defined Nigerian football now feel like distant memories.
Even more concerning is the message this sends to young, aspiring footballers. When players see that connections matter more than performance, it discourages effort and demoralizes those genuinely striving to earn their place.
If Nigerian football is to return to its former glory, radical reform is needed — starting with the selection process.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and all relevant stakeholders must institute a transparent, merit-based system that rewards hard work, discipline, and consistent performance.
Scouting should be data-driven and extensive, covering grassroots football, local leagues, and Nigerian talents abroad.
A system that allows a fair chance for the best players to shine — regardless of their background or connections — is not only ethical, but essential for progress.
Football administrators must also address the culture of godfatherism by establishing and enforcing strict guidelines that prevent interference in team selection.
Accountability must become the standard, not the exception.
Nigeria’s football history is rich and filled with moments of brilliance. From winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 1980, 1994, and 2013, to the unforgettable near-miss at the 1994 World Cup, the potential has always been there.
But potential without structure, and talent without opportunity, will never be enough.
The era of compliment cards and godfatherism must end if Nigerian football is to rise again.
It is time for administrators, coaches, and stakeholders to choose integrity over influence, merit over mediocrity. Only then can we dream, once again, of a Super Eagles team that commands global respect — and inspires a nation.
Kabiru Haruna
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