Struggles of Kun Khalifat in the NPFL
With only five matches played in the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, Kun Khalifat of Imo are facing a tough time. The club, which is a newcomer to the topflight, has managed just one win, one draw, and three losses in their first five games, placing them at the bottom of the league table with only four points. This poor performance indicates that they might be heading back to where they came from.
Kun Khalifat, founded in 2020, had overcome many challenges to reach the NPFL. Their historic draw against seven-time league champions Enugu Rangers was a positive moment, but their overall performance has been disappointing. In an interview, the club’s owner and CEO, Michael Chukuwudi Amaefula, openly admitted that the club needs financial support from the government to survive in the NPFL. He mentioned that the club would need at least N1 billion to cover operational costs for a single season.
The Imo State Club Owners Association has also called on the government and well-meaning Nigerians to support the club. These appeals were not surprising, as the NPFL is known for being one of the most expensive leagues in Africa. Most of the successful clubs in the league are government-sponsored, such as Enugu Rangers, Kano Pillars, and Shooting Stars.
Financial Challenges in the NPFL
Players and officials in the NPFL are often poorly paid, while large sums of money are spent on what is commonly referred to as ‘tactical’ expenses. Club chairmen spend heavily to ensure their teams perform well, which puts private clubs at a disadvantage if they lack sufficient funds. This financial gap makes it difficult for privately owned clubs to compete effectively.
Several private clubs have struggled or disappeared over the years. Clubs like Abiola Babes, Stationary Stores, and Julius Berger once dazzled Nigerian football fans but are now either defunct or struggling to survive. Efforts are currently underway to revive some of these clubs, such as the Ranchers Bees of Kaduna, led by Hon. Mohammed Bello El-Rufai and Super Eagles’ striker Sadiq Umar.
Possible Sale of Kun Khalifat’s Slot
Reports suggest that Kun Khalifat may be considering selling or handing over their NPFL slot to a club that was relegated last season. However, the NPFL has warned against such practices. It is challenging to see how a club owner who has invested millions to reach the NPFL would give up their spot without compensation. Therefore, the relationship between Kun Khalifat and the club is being closely monitored.
If financial support from the Imo State Government, which already sponsors Heartland, does not come, Kun Khalifat may have no choice but to abandon their aspirations in the NPFL. According to reliable sources, they may not even complete the first round of the 2025/2026 season.
The Rise and Fall of Private Clubs
Some private clubs thrived in the Nigerian league because their owners were billionaires. Abiola Babes FC, for instance, was known for its excellent player and official welfare. When they won the 1985 Challenge Cup, MKO Abiola donated cash and cars to the players.
Another example is Ranchers Bees, funded by Senator Muhammed Ahmed Aruwa. He used his wealth to attract top players from Abiola Babes and other clubs, creating a strong team that dominated both locally and internationally.
Clubs like Julius Berger and BCC Lions also flourished due to corporate sponsorship. Many talented Nigerian players once played for these teams, including Moses Kpakor, Dominic Iorfa, and others.
The Future of Kun Khalifat
Managing a private club requires significant financial resources, which most Nigerian club owners lack. Amaefula of Kun Khalifat is now realizing the magnitude of the challenge he has taken on. Unlike billionaire Kunle Soname, who supports Remo Stars, most private club owners do not have the same level of financial backing.
If Kun Khalifat receives the necessary support, they may survive for a while, similar to some of their predecessors. However, if Amaefula’s plea for financial assistance goes unheard, he will have to face the challenges of the NPFL alone. If he ultimately fails under the weight of the financial burden, it could mark the end of Kun Khalifat’s journey in the elite league.
