NPFL revokes licenses of new players from nine clubs over salary debts

The Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL has taken decisive action against nine clubs over unpaid salary debts, withdrawing the licenses of all newly registered players for the 2024/2025 season. The move follows a directive from the Nigeria Football Federation NFF Players Status/Arbitration Committee, which ruled in favour of players and coaches seeking unpaid salaries and entitlements. Despite extensions and a moratorium period for compliance, the clubs failed to fulfil their obligations.

NPFL’s Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, explained that the league had exhausted its leniency and was now enforcing the ruling. Starting from Matchday 10, licenses for newly registered players on these clubs will be indefinitely suspended. Affected clubs include Plateau United 14 players, Lobi Stars 15 players, Kwara United 20 players, Katsina United, Enyimba International 18 players, El Kanemi Warriors 13 players, Bayelsa United 18 players, Akwa United 17 players, and Abia Warriors 23 players.

The NPFL clarified that the licenses would only be reinstated upon receiving official confirmation that the clubs had settled their outstanding obligations in full.

Editorial

The NPFL’s decision to enforce player license suspensions is a bold and necessary step in addressing long standing financial issues within Nigerian football. By holding clubs accountable for unpaid salaries and entitlements, the NPFL is setting a precedent that prioritizes the rights and well being of players and coaches.

This action highlights the urgent need for financial responsibility and transparency among football clubs. Failing to address these salary debts undermines the league’s integrity and deters talent from committing fully to their roles. Players invest their careers in these clubs, and fair compensation is not only a legal obligation but a moral one.

While this situation is challenging for the affected clubs, it is ultimately a move that will benefit Nigerian football in the long run. Ensuring that clubs meet their financial responsibilities will foster a more professional and sustainable league, where players and coaches can focus on their performance rather than financial disputes. As fans and stakeholders, we hope this development will lead to a more disciplined and accountable environment in the NPFL.

Did You Know?

1. The Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL operates as the top flight league in Nigerian football, comprising 20 teams.
2. The NFF Players Status/Arbitration Committee was established to resolve disputes over contracts and payments in Nigerian football.
3. Indefinite license suspension is a rarely used measure, underlining the severity of the NPFL’s response.
4. Nigerian clubs have faced ongoing challenges with player payment, impacting both domestic and international recruitment.
5. Financial issues in domestic leagues can influence player retention, as unpaid wages often lead players to seek opportunities in more stable leagues.