Elumelu Considers Acquiring NPFL Club: “A Promising Idea”

Tony Elumelu, billionaire banker and Chairman of United Bank for Africa, has expressed his interest in the prospect of acquiring a local club in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), describing it as a favorable idea.

Elumelu shared his thoughts via his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, in response to a suggestion made by an X user named LawyerDayo earlier that day. LawyerDayo proposed the involvement of top businessmen and corporations in acquiring NPFL clubs to enhance competition in the league.

In his suggestion, LawyerDayo proposed scenarios where prominent businessmen like Aliko Dangote, BUA, Tony Elumelu, and Geregu acquire various NPFL clubs.

Elumelu acknowledged the idea and revealed that the Federal Government, through the Sports Minister, Senator John Enoh, had already approached him regarding the potential acquisition of certain NPFL clubs. Elumelu confirmed that they were currently evaluating the feasibility of such acquisitions.

The NPFL serves as the pinnacle of club football in the Nigerian football league system. However, like many other leagues, it has faced financial challenges and declining fortunes since the late 2000s.