By Atlantic Reports

Former spokesman of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Nosike Ogbuenyi, has proposed an Over-40 World Cup to give retired football internationals another opportunity to represent their countries and reconnect with fans.

Speaking in Abuja, Ogbuenyi said he had submitted the proposal to FIFA, football’s world governing body, through the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) secretariat.

He argued that a dedicated veterans’ competition would allow supporters to continue watching celebrated players whose retirement often takes them out of the public spotlight.

“The introduction of FIFA Over-40 World Cup will make the football-loving world to continue to watch the best of all time on the field of play for a longer period,” he said.

A Return to the International Stage

Ogbuenyi proposed an eligibility range of 40 to 65 years, with participation restricted to players who previously represented their countries at senior international level.

Under his suggested rules, players would also have to retire from senior international football before representing their countries in the veterans’ category.

He named former Super Eagles players Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha, Nwankwo Kanu, Victor Ikpeba, Emmanuel Amunike, Obafemi Martins, Vincent Enyeama and John Obi Mikel as examples of footballers whose performances supporters would still want to enjoy.

The list illustrates his interest in former Nigerian stars, although participation would depend on each player meeting the proposed eligibility requirements.

Ogbuenyi said the competition could encourage retired players to maintain their fitness, earn additional income and remain involved in football development.

He also argued that it could create opportunities for former internationals to mentor younger players and offer active professionals something to look forward to after their senior careers.

Commercial Potential and Unanswered Questions

Ogbuenyi identified television broadcasting rights and corporate partnerships as potential revenue sources, arguing that the global following of prominent former players could attract audiences and sponsors.

These remain projections. The supplied account did not include a financial assessment, proposed tournament schedule, host-selection process or arrangements for player welfare across the suggested age range.

He also suggested that a veterans’ World Cup could discourage age falsification by giving players an incentive to look forward to competing later in life. He did not provide evidence demonstrating how the tournament would achieve that outcome.

No response from FIFA or confirmation of approval was included in the account.

An Idea Inspired by Okocha

Ogbuenyi said he first conceived the proposal following Okocha’s retirement but waited for a moment that could attract wider international attention.

He linked the timing of his submission to Lionel Messi’s departure from Argentina’s national team. Messi’s October 6 farewell marked his retirement from international football, rather than the end of his club career. apnews.com

“I have no personal interest in the proposal; I am a football fan seeking to promote greater entertainment through the game,” Ogbuenyi said.

The former media aide to the FCT minister expressed hope that FIFA would consider the proposal. Its adoption, eligibility rules and practical arrangements remain undecided.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.