NLO bars 44 players from 2025 season over medical concerns in player safety drive

By Dayo Awoniyi

In a sweeping move aimed at safeguarding player health, the Nationwide League One (NLO) has disqualified 44 players from 31 clubs ahead of the 2025 season after routine medical screenings revealed underlying health issues.

The medical assessments, conducted by NLO Medical Consultant Dr. Ayo Olajide, were part of the league’s standard preseason protocol to prevent incidents such as sudden cardiac arrest and to ensure overall fitness.

Among the affected clubs, Offa Football Club recorded the highest number of unfit players, with six ruled out. Camp Pro of Abuja followed with four players disqualified on medical grounds.

“A comprehensive medical check of players is a norm before the kickoff of every NLO season. Interestingly, 44 players won’t be part of the 2025 season owing to their health conditions,” said NLO Chief Operating Officer Olushola Ogunnowo.

Ogunnowo noted that the examinations revealed several serious conditions, including systemic hypertension, prompting the league to act decisively in the interest of player welfare.

“The various test results have shown that some of the players were having issues of systemic hypertension or other medical conditions,” he explained.

“With over 300 clubs and thousands of grassroots football talents participating in the NLO, the league’s emphasis on medical tests is crucial for maintaining player safety and wellbeing.”

The NLO’s proactive approach reinforces its commitment to prioritizing player health as the cornerstone of grassroots football development in Nigeria.