The Nationwide League One (NLO) has suspended Usman Kabir, who previously competed under the false identity of Abbati Muhammad Gola while registered with Mumbiava FC Kano during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. The suspension takes immediate effect.
According to a report received by the NLO Secretariat, Kabir supplied false personal information when registering with Camp PRO FC an act that directly violates Article 3.01(5) of the NLO’s rulebook. This regulation strictly requires the truthful declaration of a player’s name, date of birth, and related personal data during registration.
The NLO emphasised that clubs are responsible for verifying the authenticity and eligibility of their players and could face disciplinary measures if they fail to adhere to this responsibility.
Kabir is now barred from all league activities pending a formal review and further directives from the NLO. Stakeholders and clubs have been urged to ensure full compliance with registration protocols to maintain the integrity of the competition.
Editorial
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Football is more than just what happens on the pitch it’s about trust, transparency, and structure. The suspension of Usman Kabir for dual identity may appear like a minor league controversy, but its implications ripple through the entire Nigerian football system. When players bypass rules or clubs fail to verify identities, the credibility of the entire competition comes into question.
This isn’t just about one player it’s about the duty of all involved in the game to uphold its ethics. The NLO’s swift action is commendable and must set the tone for broader reforms across all tiers of football in the country. If our grassroots competitions are tainted by fraudulent registrations, how do we hope to build a dependable pipeline of talent?
Beyond punishment, the system needs a rethink. Clubs must invest in verification systems, and the league should offer training on documentation and compliance. Too often, errors in player registration are seen as technicalities, but in truth, they erode fair play.
We want our leagues to be a springboard for talent, not a hiding place for deceit. Kabir’s case should serve as a lesson not just for aspiring footballers, but for every club official entrusted with shaping careers and futures.
Did You Know?
- The Nationwide League One (NLO) is Nigeria’s third-tier football league and includes over 80 clubs nationwide.
- Dual registration or identity fraud in football can result in international bans, especially if discovered during inter-club transfers.
- Article 3.01(5) of the NLO rulebook holds both the player and club accountable for accurate information.
- FIFA introduced the Transfer Matching System (TMS) in 2010 to curb irregularities in player transfers, including identity fraud.
- In 2016, a Nigerian club was disqualified from a youth tournament for fielding an overage player under a false name, leading to stricter domestic scrutiny.
