NPFL threatens points deduction over fixture violations

The Nigeria Premier Football League is taking a firm stance to ensure the integrity of its season's conclusion. With the title race, continental spots, and relegation battle all on the line in the final two matchdays, the league body is leaving no room for manipulation or unfair advantage. The directive for all remaining fixtures to be played simultaneously underscores a commitment to sporting fairness.

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It has also become imperative to remind all clubs that the remaining games of Matchday 37 and 38 have been scheduled to be played simultaneously on the same date and kick-off time of 4pm.

Davidson Owumi, the NPFL Chief Operating Officer, clearly stated the league's position, reminding clubs that simultaneous kick-off times are non-negotiable. This measure is crucial to prevent any team from gaining an informational edge over another by knowing the results of other matches before playing their own.

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This decision is to ensure sporting fairness and to protect the integrity of our matches and results.

Furthermore, the league is addressing potential logistical challenges by mandating that clubs must proactively communicate any venue issues. Failure to secure an approved alternative venue by a set deadline will result in the NPFL assigning a location, ensuring that no team can use venue unavailability as an excuse to delay or influence their matches. The threat of forfeiting points and goals serves as a serious deterrent against any attempts to circumvent these directives, highlighting the league's determination to conclude the season on a level playing field.

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Should any club have issues of unavailability of regular venue, such club must choose and communicate an alternative NPFL accredited venue before close of business on May 7, 2026.