Football fans have taken to social media, urging Aliko Dangote, President and CEO of Dangote Group, to invest in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
This comes after the billionaire expressed regret over not purchasing English Premier League club Arsenal, despite his long-standing interest in owning a football club.
In an interview with Bloomberg’s Francine Lacqua in New York, Dangote revealed that he missed the opportunity to buy Arsenal when the club was valued at approximately $2 billion. Instead, he focused his resources on his refinery project in Nigeria.
Dangote, who had previously announced plans in 2020 to acquire the North London club after completing his refinery, has since shelved those ambitions.
When asked if he regretted not buying Arsenal when its value was lower, Dangote said, “Actually, I regret not buying it before, but you know my money was more needed in completing my project (Dangote Refinery) than buying Arsenal. I would have bought the club for $2bn, but I wouldn’t have been able to finish my project. So, it was either I finish my project or go and buy Arsenal.”
The video of the interview has gone viral, sparking numerous reactions from Nigerians. Many football enthusiasts are now calling on Dangote to channel his wealth into developing the NPFL.
Owochejo Francis commented, “Why not establish a football club in Nigeria? It would create jobs and promote the local league. As the richest man in Africa, if you own a club here, others will follow.”
Arong Usang suggested, “Buy Nigerian teams and sponsor them. The salaries of English players could easily support our entire league. Take a page from Ifeanyi Ubah’s book… It’s not just the EPL that plays football.”
Adeniyi Adeleke recommended, “Sir, why not invest in Nigerian football by owning a team, a stadium, and more?”
Adeiza Valentine echoed this sentiment, saying, “Kano Pillars are available; it’s not too late to buy a club.”
Johnbosco Nazic added, “He should buy a Nigerian club and turn it into a powerhouse that can compete across Africa.”
Similarly, Nze Chimereze remarked, “Invest that same money into Kano Pillars, Enugu Rangers, and Kaduna Warriors. Talented players in Nigeria and Africa need opportunities to showcase their skills. You don’t need to chase foreign success when you’re blessed with raw potential locally.”
Kachi Phils chimed in, “You’re looking abroad for teams to buy while local teams are full of potential. They just need some financing and polish.”
Isa Oladele wants Dangote to follow in the footsteps of the late Moshood Abiola by owning a club in Nigeria.
“Why not invest part of that money in our local clubs? Inspire other investors to do the same and elevate our league. I miss the late MKO.”
Aluko01 tweeted, “If you’re truly passionate about football and love Nigeria, please buy a club in the NPFL; it’ll uplift the league.”
