Technical director of Vandrezzer FC, Jonathan Pepper employed to oversee the NNL team has decried the poor organisation of league football in Nigeria, adding that there hasn't been any positive change since he joined the Nigerian football system early this year.
- Poor Officiating
- Poor standard of football pitches
- Sub standard of league organisation
Pepper shared his thoughts in an interview with VFC media.
"I don't think there's been any dramatic change. I think obviously everyone is aware within Nigeria. Different things have happened during the season and I think probably the authorities, the federation and the league organisers need to look at the standard of how they operate across the board: the officiating, the standard of the pitches, the organisation of the league, hence, we've got a suspension at the moment".
Pepper described the current situation where the league has been halted a few times and currently on hold as frustrating.
"It's very frustrating. As a club, we are trying to do things correctly and the things out of our control are difficult. There needs to be a big change in what's happening within Nigerian football. That's just from my Vandrezzer point of view.
"I think everyone gets frustrated with the way things are conducted and operated within the country; and it's a shame because there are a lot of good people here, a lot of talents here who need the best environment, the best situation to showcase themselves, to showcase to the world that Nigeria has some quality footballers the people that they should be proud of, but certainly not proud of how they operate from a governance point of view and at league level.
The ex-Burnley Academy director also spoke highly of his experience at Vandrezzer FC since taking charge, describing it as exciting.
"It's been really exciting. I've met a lot of good people. We have a very good vision and passion for what we're trying to do. We are facing constant challenges and we're trying to get over them and jump over few hurdles. I really enjoy my time so far and hopefully many more to come in the future. We need to make the most of the talents we have and keep moving forward."
The Lions of Naija are currently at their training base in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state in anticipation of return to competitive action, with two outstanding matches left to play in the 2022 NNL season.
The NNL management had earlier this month put the second division league on an indefinite hold due to lack of funds to sort out referees to prosecute the remainder of the league.
Meanwhile, Vandrezzer board will meet on Friday to discuss whether to spend money aimlessly or withdraw club from Nigeria
Nigeria fans across the country has also voice their anger towards the leadership and management of the Leagues, from the elite NPFL, NNL and league one (third division).
The leagues are marred with corruption from the LMC and the football administrative echelon NNF that has deliberately neglected the the growth and development of the Leagues.