NLO warns clubs against rule violations, player eligibility fraud
The Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO), Dr. Shola Ogunlowo, has warned participating clubs to strictly adhere to the league's rules and legal framework, stressing that any attempt to circumvent regulations will not be tolerated.
Ogunlowo gave the warning during the July edition of the Super Interview on the Sports World WhatsApp platform on Friday, where he addressed key issues affecting the growth and credibility of the league.
He disclosed that the NLO is stepping up efforts to prevent clubs from gaining an unfair advantage by fielding established professional players in a competition designed primarily to nurture young and emerging football talents.
"We have been doing our best Nationwide to curb the attitude of some club owners who intend to cheat the system," Ogunlowo said.
He noted that the practice undermines the league's developmental objectives by denying young players the opportunity to showcase their abilities and advance their careers.
"These actions are affecting football development in Nigeria because they deny younger players the chance to display their talents by bringing in already established professionals," he added.
Ogunlowo also alleged that some clubs attempt to manipulate documents to evade disciplinary measures, describing such actions as detrimental to the integrity of the league and the overall development of football in the country.
He reaffirmed the NLO's commitment to enforcing its regulations fairly and ensuring that all participating clubs operate within the established legal framework.
Highlighting the league's contribution to Nigerian football, Ogunlowo said the NLO has served as a vital platform for clubs to transfer talented players to European teams, creating career opportunities for many young footballers.
According to him, the continued success of the Nationwide League One depends largely on the growth, professionalism, and development of its participating clubs.
More than 400 clubs from across Nigeria are currently competing in the Nationwide League One, making it one of the country's largest football competitions.
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