The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced sweeping reforms aimed at transforming the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), with the winner’s prize money increased to a record ₦1 billion and a new minimum monthly salary of ₦2 million approved for players.
The landmark decision was unveiled by the Chairman of the NSC, Shehu Dikko, who said the reforms are part of efforts to reposition the domestic league as one of the most competitive and commercially viable football competitions in Africa.
Under the new framework, the champion of the NPFL will earn ₦1 billion, representing a significant increase from the previous prize money. The development is expected to boost competition among clubs and attract greater investment into Nigerian football.
Dikko explained that the enhanced prize package is designed to reward excellence, improve club administration and strengthen the financial sustainability of teams participating in the top-flight league.
In a major boost to players’ welfare, the commission also approved a minimum monthly wage of ₦2 million for NPFL players. The policy is expected to improve working conditions, raise professional standards and discourage the migration of talented footballers to lower-tier foreign leagues in search of better remuneration.
The NSC chairman noted that the reforms were the outcome of consultations with key football stakeholders, including the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), club owners and league administrators, all of whom share a common vision of elevating the standard of the domestic game.
He emphasized that improving the welfare of players and increasing financial incentives for clubs are critical steps toward building a stronger and more attractive football league capable of competing favourably with leading leagues across the continent.
Football stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, describing it as one of the most ambitious reforms in the history of the NPFL.
Analysts believe the increased prize money and improved salary structure will enhance competitiveness, encourage professionalism and boost the league’s appeal to sponsors and investors.
The latest reforms form part of broader efforts by the NSC to revitalize Nigerian sports and position the NPFL as a key driver of football development and economic growth in the country.
