The Board of the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, has announced a substantial increase in the prize money for the league champions, raising it from 150 million to 200 million naira.
NPFL Board Chairman, Mr. Gbenga Elegbeleye, disclosed this following the league body’s Annual General Meeting attended by board members and club owners in Abuja.
Mr. Elegbeleye revealed the prize money adjustment among other initiatives aimed at bolstering the league’s competitiveness and attractiveness.
In addition to the increased prize money, he announced a new award of one million naira each for the season’s best player and coach, designed to further motivate participants in the NPFL.
Explaining the rationale behind the financial incentives, Mr. Elegbeleye emphasized the league’s commitment to retaining talented players within Nigeria, thereby reducing the trend of players seeking opportunities abroad in countries with less footballing pedigree compared to Nigeria.
He also highlighted the strategic goal of boosting the representation of NPFL players in the national team, the Super Eagles.
The 2024/2025 NPFL season is scheduled to commence on 31st August, with Rangers International of Enugu, the defending champions, hosting Elkanemi Warriors of Maiduguri.
The remainder of the first matchday’s fixtures will be played over the weekend of 7th to 8th September.
