Former Super Eagles defender and current Abia Warriors FC Sporting Director, Emeka Ifejiagwa, has expressed strong support for the introduction of Video Assistant Referee technology in the NPFL, emphasizing that it would help ensure the league consistently produces deserving champions.
Speaking ahead of Abia Warriors’ 2025/2026 NPFL season opener against Kano Pillars FC on 22 August 2025, as well as their debut campaign in the CAF Confederation Cup against Malian giants Djoliba FC, the 47-year-old shared his thoughts on the state of Nigerian football.
NPFL Season Aligning With European Calendar
“The 2024/2025 NPFL season was the best ever in our domestic football league,” Ifejiagwa told Completesports.com in an exclusive interview.
“This is because the season started and ended at the same time as the European leagues. This year again, we’re almost starting in line with them.
“I must give credit to those at the helm of affairs, Gbenga Elegbeleye and Davidson Owumi. They are doing a great job, although there is still room for improvement. That’s why we have always clamoured for former players to be involved in football management.”
Why VAR Is Crucial for Nigerian Football
Having played for clubs including Charlton Athletic, Brighton, Osasuna, VfL Wolfsburg, and Waldhof Mannheim, Ifejiagwa added his voice to calls for the implementation of VAR in the NPFL.
“VAR will help ensure true winners emerge because it allows referees to take a second look at incidents before making final decisions,” he explained.
“It reduces human error, which helps convince everyone that decisions are taken in the best interest of the game and in line with the rules.”
Abia Warriors Ready for New Challenges
On the team’s preparation for the upcoming season, Ifejiagwa confirmed that Abia Warriors are fully set.
“We’re ready. Recruitment, documentation and pre-season have all been completed,” he said.
The former centre-back also highlighted the team’s African debut, adding:
“No doubt, Djoliba FC is a household name in African football, but we have the players, the coaching expertise with Imama Amapakabo, and strong management under John Obuh.”
Akpabio Stadium an Ideal Venue for CAF Games
Regarding Abia Warriors’ choice of Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo for their CAF Confederation Cup home fixtures, Ifejiagwa expressed optimism.
“Uyo is a good home for us. The pitch is excellent. During my days at Enyimba, I always looked forward to matches in Enugu against Rangers because of the great surface. That’s the same feeling Uyo will give our players,” he said.
He concluded on a positive note about the early start of the NPFL season:
“Starting the NPFL season early is a big boost to our continental ambition. We would have played three league matches before facing Djoliba, which will help the coach fine-tune his tactics and boost team confidence.”
