Football in Nigeria is taking a giant leap forward, thanks to Bet9ja. Bet9ja is the biggest sportsbook in the country. It is now also the official sponsor of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL.) The company decided to sign the partnership due to the popularity of the NPFL. But what does this mean for football in Nigeria?
The partnership means, above all else, that Bet9ja can now have a direct hand in helping local football teams. This help will come not only by financial assistance but also structural assistance. In other words; sports in the country is about to get a major boost.
The spokesperson for the company, Femi Osobajo, shared some thoughts about the development.
Getting The Publicity The NPFL Deserves
Osobajo explained that much of the activity on Bet9ja is from foreign leagues, with local leagues getting less attention. He went on to say that the NPFL needs all the support it can get and that this was the primary reason for the partnership. The partnership will provide more publicity opportunities, he elaborated. Then concluded by saying that this is the platform local sports always needed.
The press briefing announcing the partnership was attended by a number of big names in Nigerian football. This included the head of special projects, Harry Iwuala, as well as the head of HR at Bet9ja, Kikky Boboye. All attendees seemed thrilled about the development, celebrating the new opportunities.
But as these business matters unfolded, the NPFL was also full steam ahead. A number of matches have been unfolding, with some interesting results being recorded.
New Season Match Results
The Shooting Stars went head-to-head with Gombe United in Pamtami. Although the final results were a disappointing 0-0, it was still a fiercely fought battle. Meanwhile, the Rangers headed to Muhammadu Dikko Stadium to face Katsina United. The Rangers walked away victorious with a 2-1 victory, thanks to goals delivered by Chidiebere Nwobodo and Ossy Martins.
The match at Enyimba Stadium was tense to the end, but Kwara United managed to achieve a victory. The team managed a scalding 3-0 final score over Dakkada FC, achieving what most would call a decisive win.
Last but not least, at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, Remo Stars shocked fans by destroying MFM FC. The team managed a 2-0 final score, with shattered expectations across the board. It has all in all been an exciting time for sports in the country.
