NPFL Issues Ultimatum to Clubs Over Unpaid Debts, Contract Disputes

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has warned clubs with outstanding debts and contract breaches to settle their obligations by Monday, October 14, or face sanctions.

Ten clubs are affected, including Heartland, 3SC, Bendel Insurance, Kwara United, Lobi Stars, El-Kanemi Warriors, Abia Warriors, Enyimba, Katsina United, and Akwa United.

Heartland has the highest number of complaints, with 11 individuals, including former coach Kennedy Boboye and players Ezekiel Bassey, Stephen Chukwudi, and Ifeanyi Anyanwu, awaiting payment.

Other clubs have smaller but significant disputes, involving players such as Sikiru Alimi (3SC), Yusuf Akeem Shira (Bendel Insurance), and Lordson Ichull (El-Kanemi Warriors).

The NPFL initially granted the affected clubs an extension until Friday, October 11, as recommended by the Players Status Committee. However, with the deadline looming, the league body has reiterated its commitment to enforcing its regulations.

Clubs failing to meet the new October 14 deadline risk having their new players’ licenses withdrawn indefinitely.