NPFL enforces club licensing standards and proposes a new minimum player wage

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) held an orientation for the four newly promoted clubs—Sporting Lagos, Wikki Tourists, Barau FC and Doma United—emphasising strict compliance with club licensing, stadium facilities, security and medical standards. NPFL chief operating officer Davidson Owumi explained that the programme was aimed at “breaking down the club licensing process so everyone knows what is expected” and warned that clubs failing to meet requirements could be moved from their home grounds.

In parallel, the league announced a sweeping financial reform that includes a minimum monthly salary of 2 million naira for players and a 1 billion‑naira prize for the champions, with substantial payouts for runners‑up and third place. National Sports Commission chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko said, “Players must earn a living wage. This is how we build a league that commands respect at home and abroad.” Analysts noted concerns about whether many clubs can sustain the increased wage bill, given a history of unpaid salaries.

The reforms aim to professionalise Nigerian football, improve player welfare and attract investment, but their financial viability remains uncertain.