Lagos to host NPFL AGM in July as board warns clubs to upgrade playing turf

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

In preparation for the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, the board has announced that Lagos State will host the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in July.

The 2024/2025 NPFL season is scheduled to kick off on August 31, with the AGM set for mid-July. Clubs have been warned to improve their facilities in compliance with the Facility Requirements of the Club Licensing Regulation.

The invitation for the AGM was detailed in a letter to clubs, signed by NPFL Chief Operating Officer (COO) Davison Owumi on July 2.

“I write to convey the warm wishes of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Board and Management and to congratulate member clubs for the successful completion of the 2023/24 season,” the letter read.

“It is in working towards the new season’s earnest preparations and take-off on August 31, 2024, that the Board has elected to invite member clubs for the AGM on a tentative date of July 15-16 in Lagos.”

Several clubs, including Abia Warriors, Sunshine Stars, Shooting Stars, and Kwara United, have been directed to address defects in their stadiums and meet broadcast support requirements, such as elevated camera stands.

“As we look forward to the meeting, letters have been written to some of the clubs whose facilities were found not suitable to host NPFL matches in the new season in compliance with the provisions of Facility requirements of the Club Licensing Regulations,” noted Owumi. He urged clubs not in receipt of these letters to conduct a self-review of their facilities to ensure they meet the necessary requirements for approval.

Niger Tornadoes, Plateau United, and the newly promoted El-Kanemi Warriors have also been issued stern warnings. They were ordered to upgrade their playing turf or face the prospect of playing on alternative grounds.