Former Super Eagles defender, Taribo West, has vowed never to allow his son play for Nigeria, citing neglect, lack of care, and poor treatment of football icons by the government.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), the football legend expressed disappointment over how the country has handled its sports heroes, stressing that despite their sacrifices, many were abandoned in death without recognition or support.
“For me, it’s disheartening that you have the Nigeria Football Association, they drop the bulk on the family. I felt in my spirit there’s nothing to put your life for, that’s why I had to shift back so that I’ll not implode,” West lamented.
He recalled personal struggles without government support, noting that he never shed tears when his parents died, but was moved to tears when former teammate Peter Rufai passed on. He also referenced the neglect faced by late Nigerian football greats such as Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, Thompson Oliha, and Samuel Shofoluwe, questioning the value Nigeria places on its football icons.
“What kind of nation is this? With this kind of example they have shown in Shofoluwe, in Stephen Keshi, Thompson Oliha, Rashidi Yekini, I will never advise my son to put his feet for this country,” he declared.
West further criticized the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), saying: “Do we have a football federation or do we have a football association in this Lagos State that this hero, this soldier, this football evangelist has to be treated this way and his family? Could you imagine that we solicit within our group to ask for money? That is madness.”
His comments triggered a wave of reactions online, with many Nigerians sympathizing with his position while others reminded him of his past political affiliations, including his public support for President Bola Tinubu.
The outburst has reignited debates on the treatment of ex-footballers in Nigeria and the need for institutional reforms to better cater for sportsmen who have represented the country