We Are Way Behind on Professionalism" – Sam Sodje on Nigerian Football's Challenges

In an exclusive interview with SportsBoom, former Super Eagles defender Sam Sodje delivers a passionate critique of Nigerian football, discussing the urgent need for improvements in player development, welfare, and professionalism.

A former Premier League player turned sports administrator, Sodje shares his unique perspective on the evolution of Nigerian football, the current state of the national team, and his transition to life after professional football.

His reflections underscore the importance of planning for the future and the role of experienced sports figures in reshaping the nation's football landscape.

A Voice of Experience

Sam Sodje has seen it all. From his playing days in Europe to his current role as a sports administrator in Nigeria, he has always been a vocal advocate for player welfare and the need for professionalism in the Nigerian sports industry.

In this candid interview, Sodje pulls no punches as he addresses the gaps in the country’s football system, offering insights into the changes required to elevate the game to international standards.

With a career that spans multiple countries and roles, Sodje is determined to give back to Nigerian football, helping the next generation avoid the pitfalls many players face when transitioning to life after sports.

The State of Nigerian Football: "Players' Welfare Has to Be Spot On"

What do you think Nigerian football needs to improve in terms of player development and infrastructure?

"You have to first of all understand that the players are the main actors of the game. The players' welfare has to be spot on," Sodje begins, emphasizing the critical need to focus on the people driving the sport. "Football is not just a hobby. Football is a career, so players' welfare should be number one."

Sodje speaks from personal experience, having played in Nigeria before moving to Europe. "I can tell you for a fact because I played in Nigeria. I now work in the Nigerian sports industry as a sports administrator, so I know exactly what I'm talking about."

Professionalism in Nigerian Football: A Lack of Experience at the Top

What needs to change for the players and administrators to grow and become more professional?

"We've got lots of experienced ex-internationals who can really guide the players and administrators in this country," Sodje states, pointing to a major issue in Nigerian football; the lack of experience among the people running the game.

"You have people who have never played the game before, who don’t know how important it is to be a sports individual. That's the problem with many of our sports administrators."

When it comes to the players, Sodje believes they often don’t know any different. "When someone like myself, or others with experience, comes back, they should listen. They need to understand how important diet, lifestyle, sleep, and training are in being a professional."

Sodje also stresses the importance of media relations and how players present themselves.

"Professionalism is very important in any sport, especially football. That’s why it kills me when I see players joking around too much."

The Super Eagles Then and Now: "It's a Different Generation"

Can you share your thoughts on the evolution of the Nigerian national team since your playing days?

Sodje reflects on his time with the Super Eagles, comparing it to the current era. "In my time, we played for the badge, the shirt. We knew not to expect too much. Even the foreign players like myself, who came from England, we just wanted to play for Nigeria."

He acknowledges that times have changed, and with social media and increased exposure, players today have different expectations. "The current players are more professional and more exposed. You can’t compare them with the time we were playing. They expect to be treated fairly, and they should."

However, Sodje believes the current squad is on the right track. "I respect the current players because they’re fitter and younger. The standard of football has improved, and I think the national team has been doing well."