The Nigeria National League (NNL) has prohibited Akwa United, Heartland FC, and several other indebted clubs from registering for the 2025–26 season.
The decision follows the relegation of Akwa United and Heartland from the NPFL, and is tied to lingering financial liabilities. League administrators cited unpaid fees, outstanding fines, and unresolved contractual obligations as reasons for the registration blocks.
Officials stressed that clubs must settle all outstanding obligations before they can complete registration for the upcoming season. At present, the clubs affected are unable to participate in NNL until their financial affairs are resolved.
Editorial
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We see this ruling by the NNL as a serious turning point a clear reminder that football clubs, like all professional organisations, cannot operate in a vacuum where financial responsibility is optional.
We understand that relegation already presents a heavy strain on club finances. Losing top-flight revenue is difficult enough. But ignoring debts—whether to players, officials or the league is not a viable strategy. The NNL’s firm stance suggests that financial discipline must accompany sporting ambition if clubs hope to survive and grow sustainably.
We believe clubs like Akwa United and Heartland now face a critical test Will they use this as an opportunity to reset their structures and financial practices, or will they fall back into old habits? Their response will shape not only their competitive future, but their credibility as organisations.
We also feel the implications go beyond just those clubs. Fans, sponsors, and stakeholders at all levels need assurance that their clubs are being managed transparently and responsibly. If the NNL’s decision encourages more rigorous oversight and accountability, this may ultimately strengthen Nigerian football’s foundation.
We hold firm to the idea that financial accountability is not a hindrance to growth it is a prerequisite. Clubs that manage themselves responsibly are more likely to build the kind of resilience and trust that allows them to thrive over time. The question now is whether these clubs will rise to that challenge.
Did You Know?
- Akwa United and Heartland FC were both relegated from the NPFL at the end of the 2024–25 season, alongside Sunshine Stars and Lobi Stars.
- Clubs relegated to the NNL now include Warri Wolves, Wikki Tourists, Barau, and Kun Khalifat—who replaced the relegated sides in the top flight.
- Barau FC, one of the promoted teams to the NPFL, is owned by Senator Barau I. Jibrin, the Deputy Senate President of Nigeria.
- Financial mismanagement and unpaid obligations have previously led FIFA to impose registration and transfer bans on clubs in other African countries.
- The NNL has made it clear that clearing all debts including transfer fees, fines and player salaries will be mandatory before any club can register for the 2025–26 season.
