Felix Awogu Commends NSC Leadership, Backs Team Nigeria’s Commonwealth Games Ambition— Says 2030 World Cup Qualification Non-Negotiable for Nigeria

By Ohis Asein

Former Head of Outside Broadcast and Studio, DStv West Africa, Chief Felix Awogu, has commended the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, for the support being provided to Team Nigeria ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Speaking exclusively to FAKS MEDIA on Tuesday, the renowned sports journalist praised the Commission’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for the nation’s athletes to excel on the international stage.

Awogu, however, noted that while setting medal targets is important, such expectations could place additional pressure on the athletes.

“I believe the support being given to Team Nigeria is commendable. The athletes have been well encouraged, and I am optimistic they will make the country proud. However, medal targets should be handled carefully because they can create unnecessary pressure. With the level of support they are receiving, I believe Nigeria will perform well in Glasgow,” he said.

The veteran broadcaster also urged the NSC to make the Super Eagles’ qualification for the 2030 FIFA World Cup a national priority.

“It was painful not to see Nigeria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. We are one of Africa’s football powerhouses, and the country must do everything possible to secure qualification for the 2030 tournament,” Awogu said.

Commenting on recent reforms in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Awogu welcomed the introduction of a ₦1 billion prize for the league champions, describing it as an additional incentive that could help Nigerian clubs prepare more effectively for continental competitions.

“The ₦1 billion prize for the league winners is a commendable initiative. It should be an added incentive to the existing prize money, enabling our clubs to strengthen their squads and prepare properly for continental competitions,” he said.

On the proposed ₦2 million minimum salary benchmark for NPFL players, Awogu urged caution, saying many clubs may struggle to sustain such wages under current financial realities.

“As for the ₦2 million salary benchmark, we should allow player salaries to evolve organically. At the moment, many clubs simply cannot afford such wages unless the league is able to attract the right level of sponsorship and commercial investment. Sustainability must remain the key consideration,” he added.