Kumbi Titiloye: New NPFL Sponsorship Deal Will Improve League Organisation, Player Welfare
Kumbi Titiloye: New NPFL Sponsorship Deal Will Improve League Organisation, Player Welfare
Kwara United Chairman Kumbi Titiloye has expressed optimism that the new sponsorship deal secured by the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) will significantly improve the organisation of the league and the welfare of its key stakeholders.
Speaking to journalists at the 2025/26 NPFL Annual General Meeting, Titiloye said the sponsorship would provide the league with the resources needed to better cater to players, referees and other critical aspects of the competition.
“The new sponsorship deal will definitely make the league better organised and enable it to adequately cater to players’ welfare, referees’ indemnities and other important areas. It will be a good development for the league this season,” he said.
Titiloye, who also serves as a board member of the league, said stakeholders have been working tirelessly to position the NPFL among the best leagues in Africa.
According to him, Nigeria’s population and football potential mean the country should not lag behind in the effective administration of its domestic league.
“Nigeria has the largest population in Africa. We have no reason to lag behind in terms of efficiency in running the league and ensuring that players’ welfare is adequately taken care of,” he said.
The Kwara United chairman also raised concerns over the movement of young Nigerian players to other African countries in search of better financial opportunities.
He argued that players could benefit more from developing properly in Nigeria before making the move abroad, rather than accepting relatively low-paying contracts in other African leagues.
“We want to discourage the movement of our young players to smaller football countries simply because of money,” Titiloye said.
“If you are earning $5,000 abroad while collecting ₦800,000 in Nigeria, you may actually be better off in Nigeria when you consider taxes, accommodation, feeding and other expenses.
“What we are trying to do is ensure that players are properly trained and gain enough experience before moving abroad, where they can command serious transfer fees.”
Meanwhile, Titiloye revealed that Kwara United commenced preparations for the new season early and are currently participating in the Highland Cup in Katsina.
He explained that the club had to recruit a new set of players due to challenges surrounding player transfers in Nigeria but expressed confidence in the team’s preparations.
“We are preparing seriously. Kwara United is doing its best to step up our preparations and ensure that we are ahead of the competition. We want to do our job professionally,” he said.
Titiloye also acknowledged the support of the Kwara State Government and the Commissioner for Youth and Sports in their efforts to strengthen the club.
“The state government has been supportive, and the Commissioner has also done a lot to ensure that Kwara United remains one of the most respected teams in the league,” he added.