NPFL board admits Heartland into 2024/2025 season as Beyond Limit replacement

By Wale Mustapha

The management of Nigeria Premier Football League, (NPFL) has confirmed readmission of Heartland FC to participate in the 2024/2024 season, Nigeriafootball.ng. 

The country’s topflight league body on Tuesday anncounced that the Naze Millionaires have acquired slots vacated by Beyond Limits which was in alignment with the rule and framework of the league. 

It stated further that Beyond Limits could not be allowed to participate in the apex league as it will lead to breach in the rules guiding the league as two clubs managed by one entity be allowed to participate in the same league. 

“Specifically, there is one ownership of Beyond Limits Football Academy and Remo Stars, a club already competing in the NPFL, which constitutes a breach of Rule B11.4 of the NPFL Framework and Rules.

“As a result of this decision, the slot previously occupied by Beyond Limits Football Academy has been relinquished and subsequently handed over to Heartland FC. This decision aligns with Rule A5.2, which stipulates the criteria for club participation,” NPFL wrote.

“Heartland FC met the requirements set by the NPFL board and was the only relegated club to express interest in filling the vacancy.

“We also need to clarify that there was no slot buying transaction, as such practices are explicitly prohibited under NPFL rules. The NPFL remains committed to upholding a fair and competitive league.

“While the NPFL rules do not explicitly foresee every scenario, the board has exercised its discretion, as permitted under the league’s governing documents, to ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of the league and its stakeholders.

“The NPFL will continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ensuring that all actions taken are in line with our commitment to fairness and the integrity of the competition,” the statement reads. 

Heartland FC suffered relegation from the NPFL last season after a miserable performance that saw them finish 20th on the table. 

With the latest development, Heathland will start the return to the NPFL with a clash against Enyimba FC on Sunday.