Rangers International head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has pointed to the wide difference in player salaries between the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and North African leagues as a major challenge for Nigerian clubs seeking to retain their top performers, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Ilechukwu disclosed that players at Algerian side MC Alger earn around ?14 million monthly, while the highest-paid footballers in the Nigerian domestic league reportedly receive about ?1 million.

According to the Rangers coach, the huge financial gap makes it increasingly difficult for NPFL clubs to keep their best players, especially strikers who attract interest from foreign clubs after delivering impressive performances over a single season.

He explained that better financial packages and improved playing conditions remain key reasons Nigerian talents move abroad in search of more lucrative opportunities.

The situation also affects the ability of domestic clubs to maintain competitive squads over several seasons, as standout performers can leave when more attractive offers arrive from foreign leagues.

Ilechukwu’s comments have renewed attention on the financial challenges confronting Nigerian club football and the need for greater investment in the NPFL.

Improved funding and better player remuneration could help domestic clubs compete for top talent, reduce the pressure to sell their best performers and build more stable squads capable of sustaining strong performances across multiple seasons.