A Bold Stand on National Loyalty and Personal Responsibility
There are topics that are so sensitive that people often avoid discussing them, fearing the backlash they might provoke. In many countries, including ours, almost every issue tends to be politicized, turning into a “We versus Them” scenario. However, I have always believed in speaking my mind, regardless of who it might offend. I do not shy away from expressing my views after carefully analyzing an issue, and I take a position that I believe is fair and justifiable.
Now, let’s address a recent controversy involving Taribo West, who made a strong statement during the funeral of his late colleague, Peter Rufai, a former Super Eagles goalkeeper. His emotional outburst was completely unnecessary and out of place. He claimed that because of the way Peter Rufai was treated by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Lagos State Football Association (LAFA), and the Federal Government during his illness, death, and burial, he would never allow any of his children to play for Nigeria. This is a bold statement, but it’s also a personal choice. If Taribo West doesn’t want his children to represent Nigeria, that’s entirely up to him. He is free to take his family anywhere he chooses. However, staging such an emotional scene at the funeral of a national football legend was not only inappropriate—it was immature.
It’s important to clarify that no one asked Taribo West or his teammates to cover the costs of Peter Rufai’s funeral. Rufai was not a poor man; he lived modestly and managed his finances well after retiring. He had just finished writing his autobiography, which was set to be launched before his passing. According to sports journalist Mumini Alao, the book will be released posthumously. The contributions from his teammates were symbolic gestures, not financial obligations. If Taribo couldn’t afford to contribute, he should have said so instead of making assumptions about others’ intentions.
Moreover, it’s crucial to understand that accessing bank accounts after someone’s death can be a long process. In Peter Rufai’s case, there was a delay between his death and burial, which may have complicated things. Additionally, the Lagos State Government, NFF, and Lagos State Sports Commission contributed significantly to the funeral. While the exact amounts aren’t the focus here, the point is clear: the family did not need public assistance.
Peter Rufai was part of a financially stable royal family in Lagos. They had the means to bury their son without seeking help. Throughout his life, he avoided begging. When he fell ill, he didn’t ask for money, even when friends offered support. He paid his medical bills quietly and died with dignity. That’s why Taribo West’s public display of grief was not only inappropriate but also embarrassing.
If Taribo West is struggling financially, he should admit it openly rather than using the funeral of a dignified man as a platform to blame Nigeria. Nigeria owes him nothing. From the 1993 generation of the Super Eagles to the current squad, no player should be broke if they managed their finances wisely. Taribo West played for top European clubs like Auxerre and Inter Milan, earning substantial wages. If he’s now facing financial difficulties, that’s on him—not Nigeria.
Looking at other successful players from the same era, we see examples of wise financial management. Ronaldo, Christian Vieri, Iván Córdoba, and Diego Simeone all transitioned successfully into new careers. They invested in diverse opportunities, ensuring long-term stability beyond their playing days. Across Europe and South America, governments rarely support retired footballers. Players like John Barnes and Paul Gascoigne faced financial struggles due to poor management, but they never blamed their countries.
The entitlement mentality among some Nigerian footballers is unacceptable. Playing for the national team is an honor, not a guarantee of lifelong financial support. Footballers in Europe, where most Nigerian professionals play, don’t hold their countries to ransom after retirement. Why should it be different here?
Winning trophies for the country does not automatically come with monetary rewards. Presidents may offer cash or gifts, but this is at their discretion. The real benefit of representing the national team is the career boost it provides—not a pension plan. If you don’t want to play for Nigeria, that’s your loss. But stop the blackmail.
This is a wake-up call for current athletes, especially those in sports with short career spans. Invest your earnings, prepare for the future, learn new skills, and get an education—formal or informal. There are countless opportunities to remain relevant and financially stable. Gary Lineker, for example, transitioned into television and became one of the BBC’s highest-paid talents.
So, Taribo West, enough of the drama! It’s time to smell the coffee. Nigeria owes you nothing. Drop the entitlement mentality. God bless the Super Eagles of Nigeria. God bless Nigerian Football. God bless Nigerian Football Players, Coaches, and Administrators. God bless the Federal Government of Nigeria. God bless Nigeria.
