It is gradually becoming a trend for private individuals to take-up full ownership of football clubs in Nigeria.
This is a paradigm shift from what was obtainable in the past where clubs were solely owned and funded by state governments.
Below are four most influential private individuals who currently own football clubs in Nigeria.
- Ifeanyi Ubah – FC IfeanyiUbah
In 2015, popular businessman, Ifeanyi Ubah, decided to take his passion for football to the next level by acquiring local side, Gabros International. Less than one year after, the Nnewi-based team has transformed into one of the best clubs on the continent and front runners in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
“My ownership of the Ifeanyi Ubah FC is a dream come true. I had longed to own a football club years ago,” the oil and gas merchant said last year.
“I feel ashamed whenever I see Nigerian young players go to lesser football-playing countries to play professional soccer and I don’t see why.”
- Kunle Soname – Remo Stars
Remo Stars will play in the Nigerian topflight next season, all thanks to the inputs of club chairman, Kunle Soname. The business tycoon, owner of betting site, bet9ja, made sure he achieved a milestone by inspiring the Ogun-based club to the elite division at the fifth time of asking.
“We are very glad that finally we have gained promotion to the NPFL,” said Soname, who is also the first and only Nigerian to own a foreign club, Portuguese second division club, CD Feirense.
“We shall play in the NPFL next season and hopefully hold our own. We surely will try our best to monetize the opportunity presented by our participation in the elite league
- Bukola Saraki – ABS FC
Senate President Bukola Saraki proved there’s more to his personality than politics, when he acquired domestic club, Bukola Babes, in 2011 while he was Governor of Kwara State and renamed them Abubakar Bukola Saraki FC. Though playing in the Nigeria National League, Saraki provides the necessary incentives in order to spur his team to greatness. His son, Seni Saraki, was appointed chairman of the club last year – highlighting how important this asset is to the family.
- Chris Giwa – Giwa FC
Founded in 2012, Giwa FC climbed their way to the summit of Nigerian football in just two seasons. The Jos-based side remains the only club with no affiliation to state or corporate body right from its creation. Owned by factional president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Chris Giwa, the club has developed over the years into a force nationally. However, the team were expelled from the 2015/16 NPFL campaign for failing to honour three fixtures.
