Rivers United assistant coach Yemi Olarenwaju has said Nigerian clubs lack the resources and infrastructure needed to compete consistently with some of Africa’s leading teams, particularly those from North Africa.
Olarenwaju made the assessment following the elimination of Nigerian clubs from this season’s CAF inter-club competitions, pointing to differences in budgets, facilities and overall standards as major obstacles.
The tactician said his opinion was informed by his experience in continental football, having reached the group stages of the CAF Confederation Cup with Enyimba and the CAF Champions League with Rivers United.
Reflecting on those experiences, Olarenwaju maintained that Nigerian clubs still have significant ground to cover to match their continental rivals.
“Having qualified back-to-back for the group stages of CAF competitions, in the CAF Confederation Cup with Enyimba and the CAF Champions League with Rivers United, I have said it that we don’t have what it takes to compete with a lot of African clubs.
“Our budgets, facilities and level don’t reach those people. I was called different names. I’ve been there and seen the levels and differences. The truth is bitter, though,” he stated.
His comments have renewed debate about the challenges confronting Nigerian teams in continental competitions, particularly their ability to compete against clubs operating with greater financial resources and more developed infrastructure.
The concerns also highlight questions surrounding investment in football facilities, club administration, player development and long-term planning.
For Nigerian clubs to improve their continental performances, sustained investment and stronger institutional structures may be necessary to narrow the gap with more established sides across Africa.
Olarenwaju’s remarks add to calls for a broader review of the conditions under which Nigerian clubs prepare for and compete in CAF competitions.
