The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced significant fines and sanctions for clubs involved in disciplinary incidents during recent President Federation Cup fixtures and NPFL/NNL matches.
NFF Imposes Fines for Non-Honored Fixtures
Clubs that fail to honor fixtures in the 2026 President Federation Cup’s national preliminary rounds will face a ₦1 million fine. Additionally, clubs that complete registration but fail to appear for matches will face a ₦500,000 penalty. The state preliminaries will take place from March 22 to April 26, 2026, across Nigeria.
Disciplinary Sanctions for NNL and NPFL Incidents
The NFF Disciplinary Committee has also imposed sanctions for misconduct in the Nigeria National League (NNL) and Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Gombe United vs Jigawa Golden Stars Incident
The committee reviewed a protest filed by Gombe United regarding their NNL match against Jigawa Golden Stars, played on December 21, 2025. The controversy stemmed from a referee changing a goal kick decision to a penalty after pitch encroachment by home supporters.
As a result of the review, Gombe United was fined ₦1 million for fan encroachment. The centre referee, Terwase Chia, was suspended for the remainder of the season. Jigawa Golden Stars were fined ₦500,000 for refusing to continue the match. The final result was recorded as 0-0.
Wikki Tourist vs Katsina United
Wikki Tourist faced sanctions following their NPFL match against Katsina United on February 8, 2026. The club failed to provide adequate security, which allowed unauthorized individuals to enter restricted areas. In addition, fans threw stones onto the pitch, though no injuries were reported.
Wikki Tourist was fined ₦2 million for security failures, ₦1 million for unsporting behavior, and ₦1 million for dangerous objects thrown onto the field. The club’s remaining home matches were moved to Jos under a five-match ban.
Kwara United vs Rivers United
Kwara United was sanctioned for fan violence during their NPFL fixture against Rivers United on February 18, 2026. Fans gained access to restricted areas, threw stones, and used metal objects, causing injuries to match officials and the visiting team.
As a result, Kwara United was fined ₦2 million for inadequate security, ₦1 million for failing to control their supporters, and ₦2 million as compensation for damages caused to match officials and Rivers United personnel. Additionally, the club had three points and three goals deducted, in accordance with NPFL rules.
Conclusion
The NFF continues to enforce strict penalties to ensure discipline and maintain integrity in Nigerian football. These fines and sanctions serve as a reminder to clubs about the importance of adhering to rules, providing adequate security, and maintaining the integrity of the game.
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