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NLO Adopts Stadium League Format, Sets April 11 for Season Kickoff

 



The Nationwide League One (NLO) has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots football development by adopting key resolutions at its Annual General Meeting (AGM), held virtually on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.

The Congress commended the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for its continued support and enabling environment, with NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau praising the NLO Board and Secretariat for their efforts in improving the league. 

Gusau assured stakeholders that the federation would sustain its backing for the league to maintain its integrity and competitiveness.

One of the major resolutions was the adoption of the Stadium League format, continuing the single-leg format introduced in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

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The Congress highlighted the benefits of this system, which has significantly reduced walkovers, minimized disputes, and allowed better regulatory compliance, particularly in curbing club manipulations and biased officiating.

To enhance the league’s visibility, matches will be played in TV-friendly stadiums across the country, with venues determined by the NLO Secretariat based on NFF-approved locations. 

The Congress also called for increased live streaming of league matches to boost exposure for clubs and facilitate marketing opportunities for players.

In an effort to expand competitive opportunities for clubs, the NLO Secretariat has been tasked with organizing more tournaments within the season. 

Additionally, the Congress reaffirmed its approval of the NLO’s 10-year master plan, originally submitted to the NFF in 2021, which aims to expand the league, provide post-football career opportunities, and enhance profitability.

Due to economic conditions, the centre participation fee has been increased from ₦200,000 to ₦300,000 to cover match logistics, including officiating, security, medicals, and pitch preparation. 

However, the registration fee remains at ₦300,000, ensuring continuity in pre-competition medical assessments, player registration, insurance, and Secretariat management.

The 2025 NLO season will officially kick off on Friday, April 11, allowing clubs ample time to recruit players following the January professional league transfer window. 

Club registration opens on Thursday, January 30, and will close on Friday, March 28, 2025. 

The Congress emphasized that registration procedures are secure and tamper-proof, warning that clubs failing to complete registration will face sanctions.

As part of its efforts to strengthen grassroots football governance, the Congress endorsed the installation of a facial recognition device on the club registration portal to prevent player poaching and double registration.

The resolutions highlight the NLO’s strategic push for a more organized, transparent, and competitive league, ensuring a strong foundation for Nigerian football development.



Visit NLO official website for more 

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