The President of the Nigeria Football Federation NFF, Ibrahim Gusau, has pledged significant improvements to Nigeria’s lower football leagues for the 2025/26 season. Gusau’s commitment was conveyed by Mallam Rabiu Shara Ahlan, Chairman of the Kano State Football Association, during the Asaba 2024 Seminar for Match Commissioners, held at the Stephen Keshi Stadium on November 22.
The seminar brought together Match Commissioners from the Nigeria National League NNL, Nigeria League One NLO, and Nigeria Women Football League NWFL. Ahlan acknowledged the challenges these leagues face, such as limited funding and the sheer number of teams, and called for corporate sponsors to collaborate with the leagues to drive growth and development.
“The NFF is working tirelessly to enhance the leagues. Officiating and organisation have already improved significantly,” Ahlan stated. He highlighted the competitiveness of second-division teams, noting that several had reached advanced stages of tournaments and even participated in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Ahlan urged Match Commissioners to maintain professionalism, adhere to standards, and represent the NFF effectively. The event, hosted by NFF South-South Match Commissioners Coordinator Chief Ken Nwoamucha, centred on the theme “Match Commissioning and the Challenges of Match Reporting.”
Editorial
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The NFF’s renewed focus on improving Nigeria’s lower football leagues is a step in the right direction for the future of football in the country. These leagues are critical breeding grounds for talent and serve as pipelines for the next generation of football stars. Addressing challenges such as funding and organisation is essential for the sustainability and competitiveness of the leagues.
Corporate sponsorship could be a game-changer in this endeavour. By partnering with these leagues, businesses can foster development while gaining valuable visibility and community goodwill. The NFF’s emphasis on professionalism and improved officiating shows its commitment to restoring credibility and raising standards across all tiers of Nigerian football.
However, long-term success will require consistent efforts and accountability. Monitoring the implementation of these plans and ensuring that resources are allocated effectively will be key to delivering the promised transformation. As fans and stakeholders, we must hold the NFF accountable while supporting its initiatives to create a thriving football ecosystem.
Did You Know?
- The Nigeria National League NNL serves as the second tier of Nigerian football, just below the Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL.
- The Nigeria Women Football League NWFL has produced some of the country’s most celebrated players, including many Super Falcons stars.
- Second-division teams in Nigeria have made notable strides, with several competing in continental tournaments like the CAF Confederation Cup.
- The Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, named after the late Nigerian football legend, frequently hosts major football events and seminars.
- The NFF regularly conducts seminars for Match Commissioners to improve officiating and match reporting standards across all leagues.
