NPFL champions to earn record one billion Naira as NSC unveils major league reforms
The Nigeria Premier Football League is set for a dramatic financial transformation after the National Sports Commission announced a record-breaking increase in prize money, with next season's champions to receive ₦1 billion in what is being described as a bold step towards repositioning domestic football.
The landmark announcement was made by NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko during a strategic meeting with top officials of the Nigeria Football Federation at the commission's headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
Also present at the meeting were NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi and Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle.
In a statement issued by the NSC Director of Press, Dr Kehinde Ajayi, the commission outlined a significantly enhanced reward structure designed to boost competition and improve the financial stability of clubs across the league.
Under the new arrangement, the NPFL champions will earn a staggering ₦1 billion, a fivefold increase from the current ₦200 million prize.
The rewards will not stop at the title winners. The runners-up will receive ₦800 million, while the third-placed team will take home ₦700 million. Clubs across the league standings are also expected to benefit from financial incentives tied to their final positions.
According to the commission, the new structure is aimed at ensuring that all participating clubs enjoy greater financial returns and are better positioned to operate professionally.
In another groundbreaking move, the NSC approved a new minimum monthly salary of ₦2 million for NPFL players, a massive leap from the previous minimum wage of ₦150,000.
The commission believes improved player welfare is critical to raising the standard of the league and reducing the steady migration of talented footballers in search of better opportunities overseas.
"Players must earn a living wage. This is how we build a league that commands respect at home and abroad," Dikko said.
Beyond financial incentives, the reforms will also focus on strengthening professionalism through stricter enforcement of club licensing regulations, ensuring clubs meet required operational and administrative standards.
The commission further revealed that efforts were at an advanced stage to restore regular television coverage for the NPFL, a move expected to increase the league's visibility, attract sponsors and deepen fan engagement nationwide.
"Our players must be seen. Our league must be known. Television coverage is non-negotiable," Dikko added.
The sweeping reforms signal what could be a new era for Nigerian club football, with stakeholders hopeful that increased investment, improved welfare packages and wider media exposure will elevate the league's profile both locally and internationally.
Enugu Rangers are the current NPFL champions, having secured their ninth league title at the end of the 2025/26 season.
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