Former Super Eagles B midfielder Ifeanyi Ifeanyi has said that improved salaries and better financial conditions in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) would have stopped him from moving abroad, particularly to Iraq.
The 30-year-old, who was once regarded as one of the standout performers in the NPFL, made this known in an interview where he discussed his career journey, experiences in the Middle East, and the challenges faced by Nigerian players seeking opportunities outside the country.
Ifeanyi, who currently plays in Iraq, explained that although life and football in the country have been challenging, he has managed to cope despite the uncertainties linked to regional tensions and instability. He noted that he lives in Najaf, about two hours from Baghdad, and while there have been concerns about security in parts of the country, his immediate environment has remained relatively calm.
He also reflected on fears that arose during tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, but stated that he remained focused and was not overwhelmed by panic, adding that his trust in God helped him stay calm during uncertain periods.
Speaking about football in Iraq, Ifeanyi described the league as competitive and improving, with clubs investing in foreign players from Europe and South America. However, he admitted that his current team has struggled this season, with the club sitting near the bottom of the table and battling relegation pressure.
He also highlighted what he considers unfair treatment of foreign players in some situations, stating that local players are often prioritised when teams perform well, while blame is shifted to foreign players during poor results.
Tracing his career path, Ifeanyi revealed that he has played across multiple countries, including Algeria, Uzbekistan, and Iraq, with several stints at clubs such as Newroz and Qizilqum. He also had a difficult spell at ES Sétif in Algeria, where coaching changes, limited playing time, and administrative issues affected his progress, eventually forcing him to terminate his contract and return to Nigeria.
He described his time at Newroz as the most stable phase of his career, noting that he spent four seasons at the club and earned a regular starting position after initially struggling to break into the team.
Comparing the NPFL with leagues in the Middle East, Ifeanyi said the differences are significant, especially in terms of infrastructure, refereeing standards, and financial rewards. He noted that while the NPFL has talent, poor remuneration remains a major problem.
“In the NPFL, if there was money like in South Africa or Egypt, many players would not leave,” he said, stressing that improved pay structures would reduce the constant exodus of Nigerian players abroad.
He added that during his time in the NPFL, players rarely earned substantial wages compared to what is available in Iraq, where even second division salaries are significantly higher.
Ifeanyi also reflected on his international career, highlighting his involvement with Nigeria’s U-20 team, the Super Eagles B side, and participation in tournaments such as the CHAN and youth competitions. He described winning medals for Nigeria as one of the proudest achievements of his career.
Looking back at his club career in Nigeria, he maintained that the Akwa United squad he was part of was strong enough to win the league, lamenting that the season was cut short and decisions off the pitch affected the outcome.
He concluded by expressing pride in his journey, stating that despite the challenges, he remains grateful for his experiences and the opportunities football has given him across different countries.
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