NPFL: FCT FA chairman seeks reforms after N1bn boost

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced a landmark increase in prize money for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), with champions set to receive N1bn for the 2026/27 season. This represents a fivefold increase from the previous N200m prize. Runners-up will earn N800m, and the third-placed team will receive N700m, with financial rewards distributed across the league table based on final standings.

“

Full credit goes to the NSC, the Nigeria Football Federation, and the NPFL for making a statement that matches the scale of our football potential.

Adam Mohammed, chairman of the Federal Capital Territory Football Association, lauded the decision as a "bold statement of intent" that matches Nigeria's footballing potential. He credited the NSC, Nigeria Football Federation, and NPFL for the announcement. However, Mohammed cautioned that the substantial prize money increase alone will not transform domestic football without accompanying structural reforms.

“

A massive incentive is welcome, but it should not be mistaken for a fully functional football system. If the league is not commercially viable, properly televised, safe for players, and trusted by fans, the prize money alone will not transform it.

Mohammed emphasized that a "massive incentive is welcome, but it should not be mistaken for a fully functional football system." He called for improvements in league governance, commercial viability, broadcasting, player safety, and fan trust. The FCT FA chairman urged clubs to move beyond financial survival and develop sustainable business models with predictable revenues and professional management. He also stressed the importance of better facilities, functional youth academies, and transparent administration for Nigerian clubs to regain continental competitiveness.

“

The real objective should be building clubs that no longer struggle for survival but compete confidently on and off the pitch.