Taribo West Criticizes Nigerian Football Authorities Over Treatment of Former Players
At the funeral of the late Peter Rufai, former Super Eagles defender Taribo West openly condemned the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Lagos State government for their neglect of retired footballers. West expressed deep disappointment over the lack of support for past national team stars, stating he would never encourage his son to represent Nigeria due to the poor treatment of former players.
Controversial Remarks Ignite Public Debate
West’s comments sparked a wave of responses from various stakeholders. Real estate entrepreneur Duru Bond challenged the narrative, arguing that players like Taribo were adequately compensated during their careers. Bond questioned what additional obligations the NFF might have towards retired players, emphasizing that salaries and allowances were paid regularly when these athletes were active.
“Consider current stars like Victor Osimhen, Boniface, or even Mikel Obi-would they demand support after enjoying their prime years?” Bond remarked, highlighting the importance of personal financial responsibility.
He also criticized the public’s tendency to criticize government spending, pointing out the backlash against the $100,000 bonuses awarded to female footballers, which some labeled as excessive.
Media Analyst Highlights Historical Player Earnings
Media commentator Japhet Omojuwa added to the discussion by reminding the public that Nigerian players earned substantial match fees decades ago. He noted that some players received up to $5,000 per game over 25 years ago, urging former athletes to reflect on their financial management during their playing days rather than solely blaming the country.
“Whenever there’s an issue, it’s always ‘Nigeria this’ or ‘Nigeria that.’ Yet, players were earning as much as $5,000 per match 25 years ago,” Omojuwa stated.
The Broader Conversation: Pension Plans vs. Personal Accountability
This controversy has reignited discussions about the need for structured pension schemes for retired Nigerian athletes. While some advocate for government-backed financial support systems to safeguard players’ futures, others emphasize the importance of personal financial planning and responsibility during active careers.
Recent statistics show that many retired footballers in Nigeria face financial hardships, with a 2023 survey revealing that over 60% of former national players lack stable income sources post-retirement. This has intensified calls for reforms within the NFF to establish sustainable welfare programs.
Remembering Peter Rufai: A Legacy Overshadowed by Neglect
Peter Rufai, a celebrated goalkeeper who represented Nigeria in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and World Cups, passed away amid concerns about the welfare of ex-players. His funeral became a focal point for highlighting the challenges faced by retired footballers, sparking urgent conversations about how to honor and support those who have contributed significantly to Nigerian football.
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