Former Nigeria U-20 Flying Eagles Head Coach, Aliyu Zubair, has stated that players’ welfare is given far greater attention in the Egyptian League than in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Zubair made the remarks during the Hard Talk session organized by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kwara State chapter, on Wednesday at the Taiwo Awoniyi Media Centre, SWAN Secretariat, George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.
The Telecom SC head coach noted that players in Egypt’s second division earn significantly higher salaries than their counterparts in Nigeria, with some receiving as much as $4,000 monthly.
“At the local level where I coach, a player can earn up to $4,000. What are we now talking about?” he said.
According to Zubair, better remuneration in the NPFL would help retain talented players and reduce the constant movement of footballers abroad in search of improved opportunities.
“If a player can earn about $2,000 in the NPFL, it would discourage many from seeking greener pastures outside Nigeria,” he added.
The former El-Kanemi Warriors coach further explained that the substantial financial incentives offered by Egyptian clubs are a major reason many players choose to remain in the league, as even European clubs often struggle to compete financially.
He also expressed concern over the management of many state-owned clubs in Nigeria, arguing that a lack of accountability has contributed to their recurring challenges and poor performance.
Zubair concluded that the professionalism, organization, and strategic management of Egyptian football clubs have been key factors behind their sustained dominance in continental competitions.
“The Egyptians are more organized and employ professionals, which is why they continue to dominate African football,” he said.
