Following the postponement of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) from February to August due to logistical reasons, Abia Warriors head coach, Imama Amapakabo, has voiced concerns over the challenges that home-based players will face ahead of the rescheduled tournament.
Amapakabo, who has vast experience with Nigeria’s domestic league players, noted that the delay could result in some key players becoming unavailable for selection by the time the competition takes place.
“It’s a tough situation, but it’s one that other countries will also have to deal with,” Amapakabo said in an interview with Brila FM. “The key is how we can bring our players together.”
The former Enugu Rangers coach highlighted a recurring challenge in Nigerian football—the difficulty in maintaining squad continuity. He pointed out that many home-based players often leave for better contracts abroad, making it hard to build a stable team.
“What causes our players to leave are better working conditions and improved remuneration. If they are leaving for these reasons, can we stop them?” he questioned.
He further emphasized the need for structural improvements within Nigerian football to ensure long-term squad stability. “A major problem for us is continuity. Many of these players may leave, and then we’ll have to start from scratch again.”
Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles secured qualification for CHAN 2024 and were preparing for the tournament before the postponement. With the competition now set for August, the coaching staff may have to re-evaluate player availability and team selection in the months ahead.
Oluwayemi Omolagba
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