By Silvernews
The newly appointed Chairman of the National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF), Enugu State Chapter, Coach Ebere Amaraizu, has emphasized the urgent need to prioritize the welfare and general well-being of football athletes in Nigeria, describing it as fundamental to the growth of the sport.
Speaking shortly after his appointment, Coach Amaraizu stressed that aligning Nigeria’s football system with international best practices requires intentional focus on the rights, welfare, and mental health of professional footballers.
Footballers are the very reason clubs, coaches, and the entire system exist,” Amaraizu said. “They are the geese laying the golden eggs. Their careers are time-bound, and they face constant exposure to injuries and stress, which can result in serious mental health issues.”
He explained that the association under his leadership will vigorously champion the implementation of the Players’ Status Framework, ensuring athletes are not exploited or pushed into toxic playing environments that may affect their mental and emotional health.
We exist to ensure that players are protected, treated with fairness, and given the justice they deserve,” he added. “No professional footballer should be mistreated or forced out of the game due to unfavorable conditions.”
Amaraizu also called for a multidisciplinary and whole-of-society approach involving players, club management, and stakeholders to drive a reorientation that leads to a win-win situation for both employers and athletes.
He commended the NANPF executive body for trusting him with the leadership role and pledged to use the platform to positively influence the future of footballers and the wider football ecosystem in Nigeria.
The new NANPF Enugu boss concluded by stating that the association would leave no stone unturned in creating an enabling environment that promotes equity, justice, and performance, ultimately improving the fortunes of Nigerian football.
