NANPF urges NFF to block defaulting clubs from registering new players
The National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF) has petitioned the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) Players Status and Arbitration Committee (PSAC), calling for strict enforcement of directives governing player registration and participation in domestic competitions.
In a letter dated August 22, 2026, and signed by NANPF General Secretary Comrade Austin Popo, the association urged the PSAC to ensure that clubs that have failed to meet their obligations are prevented from fielding newly contracted players.
The petition, addressed to the PSAC Secretary at Sunday Dankoro House, FIFA Goal Project, Abuja, called for the directive to be enforced across the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Nigeria National League (NNL), Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) and Nationwide League (NLO).
NANPF specifically listed Lobi Stars, Katsina United, Kano Pillars, Niger Tornadoes, Heartland FC, Bayelsa United, 3SC, Sokoto United, Gombe United and Sunshine Stars among the clubs it wants the authorities to scrutinise.
The players’ union urged the relevant league bodies to take action before the commencement of the respective competitions, with the NPFL scheduled to begin on August 28 and the NNL on October 31. Dates for the NWFL and NLO are yet to be confirmed.
NANPF stressed that strict adherence to FIFA and NFF regulations on player status, registration and transfers is essential to protecting the integrity and fairness of Nigerian football.
The association maintained that enforcing the rules would promote professionalism, accountability and a level playing field for clubs and players.
By pushing for compliance, NANPF reaffirmed its commitment to protecting players’ rights while contributing to greater transparency and credibility across Nigeria’s domestic football competitions.
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