Nigerian football legends Kanu Nwankwo and Victor Ikpeba have expressed strong support for the ongoing transformation in the Nigerian National League (NNL), praising both the quality of play and leadership in the country's second-tier football competition.

Former Arsenal star Kanu Nwankwo, after witnessing one of the NNL matchday 15 fixtures, shared his optimistic outlook on the league's development. "There is great hope for Nigerian football from what I am seeing in the NNL," Kanu stated. "I have seen some of the games of the ongoing season. What I have seen is encouraging. These players are hungry, talented, and just need the right platforms."

Victor Ikpeba, the 1997 CAF African Footballer of the Year, echoed similar sentiments about the league's progress. "The standard of play is good and the league is very competitive. I look forward to attending the NNL Super Eight," Ikpeba remarked.

The NNL Super Eight playoff tournament has already seen four teams from the Northern Conference secure their spots. Wikki Tourists, Barau FC, Yobe Desert Stars, and Doma United have all qualified, while the remaining four teams will emerge from the Southern Conference.

The endorsement from these football icons comes at a crucial time for Nigerian domestic football, which has been working to improve standards and visibility. Their support highlights the potential of the NNL as a vital pipeline for developing talent for the Nigerian Premier Football League and potentially for international careers.

The NNL Super Eight tournament, which determines promotion to the top-flight league, is anticipated to showcase the best talent from the second division and further validate the improvements noted by these Nigerian football legends.