Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Olatunji Baruwa has dismissed suggestions that adopting an abridged format in the Nigeria Professional Football League will solve the challenges facing domestic football.
Baruwa, who is currently working with Nasarawa United, argued that reducing the number of matches and splitting teams into groups would not produce a truly competitive league.
“It won’t fix it,” he said, criticizing the idea as a superficial solution to deeper structural problems.
According to the former goalkeeper, a full 20-team league remains the most effective format for ensuring fairness and competitiveness.
“That’s how you get the best team,” he implied, stressing that a longer season allows for consistency and proper evaluation of teams.
However, Baruwa acknowledged that there are legitimate concerns driving discussions around a format change, particularly issues related to travel, security, and finances.
He pointed out that many clubs struggle with the logistics of long-distance travel, especially those unable to afford flights.
“These challenges are real,” he noted.
Rather than altering the league format, Baruwa believes the focus should be on addressing these underlying issues.
Improving infrastructure, ensuring safer travel conditions, and providing financial support to clubs, he argued, would have a more meaningful impact.
“Fix the real problems,” he stressed.
His comments reflect a broader debate within Nigerian football about how best to reform the domestic league.
While some advocate for immediate changes to ease operational difficulties, others ,like Baruwa, believe that long-term solutions are needed.
As discussions continue, the future of the NPFL remains a key topic.
But for Baruwa, the message is clear.
There are no shortcuts in football.
And real progress requires real solutions.
