The Nationwide League One (NLO) has officially set April 11, 2025, as the kickoff date for its 2025/2026 season.
This was confirmed in the communiqué released following the league’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), held virtually on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.
In a move to further strengthen the grassroots football structure in Nigeria, the Congress increased center participation fee from ₦200,000 to ₦300,000, due to economic challenges.
“This fee covers match logistics, including security, medical support, pitch maintenance, and match officials’ indemnities. However, the registration fee remains ₦300,000, which includes player medical assessments, registration, insurance, and Secretariat management costs.
Key highlights from the AGM
The Congress adopted the Stadium League Format, which has been in place since 2021.
The Congress commended the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for its continued support, which has provided the NLO with an enabling environment to operate effectively.
The Congress reaffirmed its approval of the NLO 10-Year Master Plan, which was submitted to the NFF in 2021.
Club registration will begin on Thursday, January 30, 2025, and will close on Friday, March 28, 2025. The NLO’s registration process has been recognized as secure and tamper-proof, with strict sanctions for clubs failing to complete their registration on time.
In a bid to curb player poaching and double registration, the Congress approved the installation of a facial recognition system on the club registration portal. This move aims to enhance transparency and maintain the integrity of player transfers within the league.
The NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, praised the NLO Board and Secretariat for their dedication and progress in the league. He encouraged them to strive for greater achievements that will further enhance the reputation of Nigerian football. Gusau also reaffirmed the NFF’s commitment to supporting the league’s development.