Uyi calls for systemic overhaul of African football
Renowned FIFA-licensed football Intermediary and sports entrepreneur, Dr. Drew Uyi, has outlined critical barriers to the genuine development of football across Africa, stressing that raw talent alone is insufficient to
Renowned FIFA-licensed football Intermediary and sports entrepreneur, Dr. Drew Uyi, has outlined critical barriers to the genuine development of football across Africa, stressing that raw talent alone is insufficient to drive sustainable progress in the game.
Speaking at a football forum held at the Puskás Arena in Budapest, Hungary, Uyi described the event, themed "East Meets West in Football," as more than a platform for dialogue — a space for honest and necessary conversations about the future of the sport.
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He emphasised that infrastructure remains a fundamental pillar in football development, noting that without deliberate investment in facilities and systems, the continent's vast pool of talent will continue to fall short of its full potential.
He said, "Infrastructure is destiny. Without quality pitches and facilities, development is limited and true talent remains unseen.
"African football must go beyond talent production and embrace branding and positioning. Brazil doesn't just develop players — it presents them to the world with purpose, increasing their global value."
Uyi stressed that talent alone is not enough. "Players with strong family and support systems adapt and succeed more consistently abroad. The human side of football cannot be overlooked.
"Exporting raw talent comes at a cost. When players leave too early without full development, value is created elsewhere, not at home."
He added: "The future of African football lies in building strong systems that develop, support, and maximise talent."
