The Nigeria National League has warned its 34 participating clubs to settle outstanding financial obligations and fulfil all mandatory licensing requirements or risk being excluded from the 2026/27 season.
The warning was contained in a memo issued to the clubs by the league’s Chief Operating Officer, Danlami Alanana, ahead of the new campaign scheduled to begin on October 31, 2026.
According to the directive, clubs must provide evidence that they are not indebted to players and coaches over sign-on fees, salaries and allowances.
“Clubs must provide proof of non-indebtedness to players and coaches in respect of sign-on fees, salaries and allowances,” the memo stated.
Clubs with unresolved financial obligations will also be required to obtain clearance from the Nigeria Football Federation Arbitration Committee before completing their registration for the new season.
As part of measures aimed at ensuring clubs have sufficient financial capacity to complete the campaign, the NNL has introduced a mandatory N20m financial guarantee for every participating team.
Other registration requirements include duly signed contracts for players and officials, settlement of outstanding league fines and fees, and submission of valid Corporate Affairs Commission incorporation certificates.
Clubs have also been directed to provide details of their ownership structures and comply fully with the NFF Club Licensing Regulations.
Infrastructure remains another key requirement, with participating teams expected to provide approved home grounds equipped with functional dressing rooms and adequate medical facilities.
The league further requires clubs to submit valid insurance coverage for their players and officials, while coaches must hold the appropriate Confederation of African Football licences.
Registration for the 2026/27 season has already commenced, with the NNL warning that clubs that fail to meet the stipulated requirements before the deadline could be denied participation.
The measures are designed to improve financial discipline, strengthen administrative standards and ensure greater compliance with club licensing regulations across the second-tier league.
The new NNL season is scheduled to kick off on October 31, with four teams expected to secure promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League.
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