Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali has stated that many West African players move to the South African league because of its superior structure and overall quality.
According to Nwabali, both the South African and Moroccan leagues are more attractive than most West African leagues, which explains why players in those competitions are less eager to seek opportunities abroad.
“In West Africa, our leagues are not as good. We want to go to Europe, we want to come to South Africa, we want to go to Morocco,” the former Chippa United shot-stopper stated.
“The league, the pay is a little bit nice for a certain level of your team.”
“If your league is nice, you’re getting paid, you’re getting sponsors, what are you leaving for?”
Reports indicate that Nwabali earned approximately $11,000 per month during his time at Chippa United.
In contrast, the highest paid goalkeepers in the Nigerian league earn between $880 and $955 monthly.
The financial gap becomes even more evident when comparing top earners across different leagues.
At one point, Samir Nurković reportedly earned $51,000 per month, while Thembinkosi Lorch earned around $66,000 during his time at Mamelodi Sundowns.
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In Morocco, top earners in 2026 are reported to receive significantly higher wages as well.
Elite clubs such as Wydad Athletic Club and Raja Casablanca paying in excess of $30,000 to $50,000 per month, depending on contracts and bonuses.
In Nigeria, the disparity remains striking. Ahmed Musa, considered one of the highest paid players in the domestic league, reportedly earns about $3,680 per month.
Sikiru Alimi was also among the top earners, receiving approximately $956 monthly during his time at Remo Stars.
However, differences extend beyond salaries as the PSL continues to attract an influx of foreign players due to its structured administration, reliable sponsorship, and improved player welfare.
This stability allows players to remain in the league unless opportunities arise from top European clubs or emerging destinations.
Conversely, players in the Nigerian league frequently seek moves abroad, sometimes even to mid level competitions, due to challenges related to finances and welfare conditions.
Nwabali’s remarks highlights the widening gap in organization, financial strength, and player development across African leagues.
It emphasizes how these factors continue to shape the movement and ambitions of players on the continent.
