A strong return on investment in the beautiful game drives the founding and management of clubs in football-loving nations worldwide. The owners of some of these Nigerian Professional Football League, NPFL Clubs are frequently intrigued by what they expect to gain from gate receipts, merchandise sales, TV rights, and, most importantly, the steadfast support of the clubs’ “die-hard” fans, who are the driving force behind taking these clubs beyond the borders of the country where the league is being played.
The fans are the key parties in this situation. The supporters’ investment is their support, and their reward is the emotional fulfillment that all football fans seek, whether by pursuing promotion, avoiding relegation, or participating in a cup run. All a football team needs to do is to ensure these returns are justified.
Clubs are founded for many reasons in Nigeria, though. Some clubs were founded out of enthusiasm or love for the game, though the majority were founded to provide jobs for young people.
But even worse is the fact that the money given to manage the clubs run by the various governments is mismanaged and unaccounted for. As a result, the clubs, unlike those in the Western parts of the world, are unable to reach their full potential.
These state-owned clubs in Nigeria don’t care about making a profit because they are confident that the government will cover their expenses no matter what. But that isn’t always the case, though, as governments frequently struggles to meet their duties to the teams and are unable to pay players and officials when they are due.
Sporting Lagos FC, Doma United, and Remo Stars Football Club all stand out for more than just their on-field accomplishments.
Another era is dawning, shaped by a wave of innovative private football clubs that are not only excelling on the field but also harnessing their potential to make a mark on the business and economic landscape.
These clubs are leading the charge by redefining the conventional notions of football clubs and capitalizing on previously untapped revenue streams.
Many fans would say that the traditional clubs run by the state government are still miles away from the new clubs and it would take years to replicate its success like that of Enyimba FC of Aba, Enugu Rangers FC of Enugu, and Kano Pillars of Kano.
These are facts but the privately owned clubs are now making tons of money and paying the players way more than the traditional clubs.
The players from these clubs get recognised more than the old ones because they are well run and project themselves for the future. City People lists down some of the benefits of these privately run clubs and at large, how they make money.
REDEFINING FOOTBALL BUSINESS STRATEGIES
These private clubs are setting a precedent for a fresh approach to the business of football. Unlike their traditional counterparts, they are not solely focused on match results; they’re exploring diverse revenue streams to enhance financial stability and sustainability.
FAN CLUB REGISTRATIONS AND SEASON TICKETS
Sporting Lagos FC and Remo Stars FC have recognized the potential of fan engagement as a significant revenue generator.
By offering fan club registrations and season tickets, they not only ensure a steady flow of income but also create a sense of belonging among supporters.
This engagement model enables fans to feel like active participants in the club’s journey, fostering loyalty and boosting attendance at matches.
These clubs have taken ticket purchases beyond the regular way. They have digitalized it, although quite expensive more than the normal Nigerian clubs. A traditional Nigerian club like Kano Pillars or Abia Warriors and the likes will sell paper tickets at the gates for as low as #500 but clubs like Sporting Lagos and Remo Stars have moved past that, they sell regular tickets for #2,000, with fans also seeing reasons to pay for it as there’d be fun fair aside from the football game they’ve come to watch.
ACADEMIES AND PLAYER DEVELOPMENT
Beyond the field, these clubs are investing in academies and player development programs. With the addition of some clubs from the Nigeria National League, NNL, clubs like Vandrezzer FC, Ikorodu City FC, and the NPFL Clubs Remo Stars FC, Sporting Lagos FC and Doma United are nurturing young talents through their academies, not only bolstering the club’s future rosters but also potentially generating profits through player transfers.
In 2023, Shola Ogundana, joined Brazilian giants Flamengo on a season-long loan deal from Nigerian topflight side Remo Stars.
Serie A giants, Inter Milan also completed the signing of Remo Stars attacking midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro. These are some of the testimonies.
FUNDS FROM SPONSORS AND PARTNERSHIPS
The private clubs are changing the sponsorship game. Rather than simply displaying logos on jerseys, they are forming strategic partnerships with brands that align with their vision.
Sporting Lagos FC’s collaborations with Klasha, Pepsi, and Chowdeck demonstrate their commitment to merging sports and business.
These partnerships offer mutual benefits: Brands gain exposure to passionate fan bases, while clubs receive financial support and resources for growth.
LEAD THE WAY FOR OTHERS
The success of these clubs serves as a blueprint for the broader Nigerian football ecosystem. Traditional clubs can learn from their innovative approach and adapt their strategies to create sustainable revenue streams.
The infusion of business acumen into football operations not only ensures financial stability for the clubs themselves but also elevates the overall standard of Nigerian football.
Sporting Lagos FC, Doma United, and Remo Stars Football Club are proving that football is not just a sport; it’s a powerful economic catalyst.
By redefining the role of football clubs and embracing innovative business strategies, they are setting new benchmarks for success.
As they continue to inspire a new generation of fans, sponsors, and entrepreneurs, the Nigerian football landscape is poised for a transformative evolution, where clubs not only chase trophies but also build sustainable futures rooted in innovation, engagement, and economic growth.
Benprince Ezeh
08068599879
