By Tolulope Oguntimehin 

For two consecutive CHAN tournaments, the Home-based Eagles failed to secure qualification, casting a shadow over the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL). For league managers, it became an albatross—a glaring gap that questioned the league’s progress. But now, a new chapter is being written. The CHAN Eagles’ qualification for the 2025 tournament is not just a triumph; it’s a resounding testament to the remarkable strides the NPFL has made in recent years.

The last three seasons have seen an unprecedented transformation in the league. Refereeing standards have improved significantly, bolstered by timely payment of indemnities and a commitment to professionalism from the Gbenga Elegbeleye-led board. No longer do referees face uncertainties; their fees are secured, resulting in better officiating and greater integrity on the pitch. While perfection is a journey, the league is miles ahead of where it used to be.

Coaching quality has also reached new heights, bringing a blend of experience and fresh perspectives to the league. Ex-internationals like Emmanuel Amuneke, Finidi George, Daniel Amokachi and Kennedy Boboye have returned with European-influenced ideologies, seamlessly integrating them with the unique Nigerian style. Young coaches, inspired by this evolution, are breaking through, injecting creativity and passion into the league. This has paved the way for emerging talents to shine like never before.

The football on display reflects this growth. Watching Enyimba’s tiki-taka against Zamalek especially in the second half in the CAF Confederation Cup felt like witnessing a masterclass though it ended in a 2-2, a far cry from the league’s earlier days. Players like Ahmed Musa, Shehu Abdullahi, and Brown Ideye have also returned, bringing star power and increasing attention on the NPFL. Coupled with innovations like increased match broadcasts, the league has never been more accessible to fans.

This renaissance has culminated in the CHAN Eagles’ long-awaited qualification. For the first time in six years, Nigeria will compete in the African Nations Championship—a feat driven by the hard work, vision, and sacrifice of the Gbenga Elegbeleye-led board. The leadership’s ingenuity has revitalized the NPFL and elevated the Home-based Eagles.

As February 2025 approaches, optimism fills the air. The dynamic coaching duo of Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu promises to deliver performances that will leave Nigerians in awe in Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya. In the words of the Yoruba people of Nigeria , “E ti ri nkan kan”—“You haven’t seen anything yet.”

The CHAN Eagles’ qualification is more than a victory; it’s a bold statement of the NPFL’s resurgence. The league is rising, and the best is yet to come.