NLO warns clubs, players against participation in unapproved Private Leagues

The Nationwide League One (NLO) Secretariat has issued a stern warning to all clubs and players registered with the league against participating in any private football competitions operating outside the recognised football structure in Nigeria.

In a circular addressed to all registered clubs, the NLO Secretariat expressed concern over the reported involvement of some NLO-affiliated clubs and players in private leagues that have not been recognised or approved by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

The NLO Secretariat emphasised that such participation constitutes a breach of Article 3.01(6) of the NLO Rules and Regulations, which expressly states that: “Players/clubs registered with the NLO shall not be allowed to play for any private league other than the national leagues in the Nigeria Football Federation.”

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The Secretariat maintained that compliance with the provision is a fundamental obligation for every club registered with the league, noting that all participating clubs subscribed to the regulations as part of their registration requirements.

Consequently, the NLO has directed all affiliated clubs to immediately desist from participating in any other private competition that lacks the requisite recognition or approval of the NFF.

The directive also prohibits registered players from featuring in such competitions and warns clubs against fielding, engaging, or permitting their registered players to participate in unauthorized leagues.