FIFA-trained Sports facilities expert, Ebi Egbe, says community stadiums equipped with standard FIFA quality pitches can play a significant role in getting Nigerian football back on track.

“We must stop concentrating all our attention and resources on expensive national stadiums while neglecting the community level facilities where football development truly begins,” he said yesterday.

Egbe, who is Chief Executive Officer of Monimichelle Sports management company said that one practical example is Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, constructed by his outfit.

“Remo Stars stadium is FIFA quality-playing surface, which has made it a valuable venue for high level football, including CAF competitions and matches involving Nigeria’s national teams.

“The fact that the stadium is hosting junior national team games and Super Falcons matches, demonstrates the importance of investing in community based facilities that meet the required playing surface standards.

“Nigeria does not need to build every football facility on the scale of a national stadium. We need more strategically located community stadiums with quality pitches, proper drainage, adequate supporting infrastructure, and sustainable maintenance programmes.

“The future of Nigerian football starts from the grassroots, but grassroots football deserves world class facilities. At Monimichelle Sports, we believe that building to FIFA quality standards is not just about constructing a pitch; it is about creating opportunities, developing talent, supporting our national teams, and securing the future of Nigerian football,” he said.

According to Egbe, government at every level, football authorities, and private investors must now work together to make community stadium development a national priority.

“By funding, approving, building, and maintaining more quality facilities across Nigeria, they can create lasting pathways for young talent, strengthen local clubs, and expand access to football. The time to invest in the next generation of Nigerian football is now. The Pitch Is the 12th Player.”