Foreign Football Coaches: African Nations Undermining Local Talent, Paying to Be Recolonized
President Tinubu must recognize that the foundation of sustainable democracy in Nigeria is good governance. Since 1999, Nigerian politicians have derailed from this path, often for selfish reasons. While democracy doesn’t necessarily guarantee good governance, credible leadership does. Unfortunately, Nigeria’s political system is plagued by unfulfilled promises and ineffective governance.
The current administration, led by Tinubu’s APC, has worsened issues like hunger, unemployment, and poverty. These problems reflect the broader failures of Nigerian democracy since 1999, where the political class has been largely ineffective.
A glaring example of this mismanagement is in the realm of football. African nations, including Nigeria, continue to hire foreign coaches, reinforcing a colonial mindset. Is football such an advanced field that only expatriates can lead? Nigerian players are globally recognized for their talent, yet the government refuses to promote homegrown coaches.
In Western countries like the US, UK, and Canada, highly skilled and educated Africans are relegated to low-level jobs, while unqualified white individuals are often hired for top roles in Africa. This reflects a deep lack of self-respect and confidence in our own people.
Michael Egi recently noted that even when Nigerian coaches like Stephen Keshi succeeded where foreign coaches failed, they were dismissed in favor of white coaches. This shows a broader issue in African leadership: a failure to value local expertise.
If Africans don’t elevate themselves and embrace their own talent, they will continue to be marginalized both at home and abroad. The time has come for Nigeria to invest in its people, reject this recolonization mindset, and give opportunities to deserving Nigerians.
Zik Gbemre
August 30, 2024
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