By Wakawaka Sports
The Chairman of the Nigeria National League (NNL) Board, George Aluo, has said the board is committed to repositioning the country’s second-tier football league through structural reforms, improved scheduling, better facilities and enhanced television coverage.
Aluo stated this in Owerri after the 2026 NNL Annual General Meeting (AGM), saying the 2026/27 season would kick off on October 31 and run through April before the Super Four competition. He said the improved calendar would give clubs promoted to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) adequate time to strengthen their squads.
The NNL chairman disclosed that the number of participating clubs had been reduced from 40 to 36, then 35, and now 34 for the coming season, with a target of 32 clubs to be divided into two conferences of 16 teams each. He said the restructuring was part of the mandate given to the board by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Aluo also announced measures to improve the league’s visibility, including a production rights agreement with Toptier Sports Management Company, while clubs are being encouraged to stream their matches live. He warned clubs against using substandard playing surfaces and disclosed plans to expand night matches, with several clubs already indicating their readiness to host games under floodlights.
He further said the league calendar would be adjusted to accommodate the 2027 general elections, with provisions for breaks and rescheduling where necessary. He also commended the Imo State Government for providing an enabling environment for the successful hosting of the AGM.
The opening match of the 2026/27 NNL season will see Heartland FC of Owerri host Crown FC of Ogbomosho on October 31 at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, as the two sides begin their campaign in what promises to be an exciting new season.
