Too many cooks in this IMC

Troubled Nigeria Premier League


With 13 members in the Interim Management Committee, the Nigeria Premier League appears to be on the verge of setting a new record.  

The membership of the IMC now equals the number in the first league baord headed by Chief Oyuiki Obaseki, which had 13 members.

Under Owumi/Baribote era, the number was reduced to reduce cost of managing the body and now we're back to square one.

No doubt, the league needs a surgical operation to put it at par with better managed leagues in the continent like Premier Soccer League (South Africa), Kenya Premier League (Kenya) and even the Sudanese Premier League (Sudan).

A lot of work has to be done to turn the league around, but the work doesn't require the number of people in the committee.

Former House of Representatives member, Nduka Irabor, is chairman of the committee.

Irabor is not a stranger to the industry considering some of his previous assignments in recent times.

Other members are Mallam Salisu Abubakar, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, Hon. Sabo Babayaro, Mike Enahoro, Kunle Elebute, Shehu Dikko, Barr. Seyi Akinwunmi, Nwankwo Kanu, Barr. Ifeanyi Dike, Abubakar Nuhu Danburan and Mike Idoko.

It appears the committee has a whole year to work since part of their assignment is to organise the 2012/2013 season.

Terms of reference for the Committee includes:

• Organise the 2012/13 League
• Review all contractual obligations of the NPL, including TV and Sponsorship rights.
• Review existing rules and guidelines for the election into NPL Board.
• Develop new standards for players’ contracts and welfare.
• Develop strategy and facilitate the reform of the League towards achieving profitability.

The Committee is also expected to announce a date for the kick off of the 2012/2013 season.