NPFL Reaffirms Ban On Slot Sales, Unveils 2025/26 Fixtures Amid Ownership Row
The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) has firmly reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on slot sales, as it officially unveiled fixtures for the 2025/26 season during its Annual General Meeting and draws held in Abuja.
Addressing the controversy surrounding Heartland’s return to the top flight, NPFL Chairman, Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye, clarified that the move was not a slot sale, but a regulatory intervention. He noted that both Beyond Limits and Remo Stars are owned by the same parent company, a direct breach of the NPFL’s rules on dual ownership.
“In this case, it was imperative to act,” Elegbeleye stated. “You can’t have one entity owning two clubs in the same league. It’s clearly against our rules, and this was handled accordingly.”
He further explained that no money exchanged hands in the process. “There was no mention of money from Beyond Limits’ proprietor.
We had a stakeholder meeting, explained the league’s position, and they voluntarily agreed to step aside.”
While clubs like Sporting Lagos and Gombe United declined the opportunity to replace Beyond Limits, Heartland was eventually chosen—though Elegbeleye stressed that this should not be seen as a precedent.
“Unless it’s a case of dual ownership, no club will be allowed to sell its NPFL slot. This was an exception, not the rule,” he affirmed.
In addition to Heartland, Wikki Tourists, Kun Khalifat, Warri Wolves, and Barau FC were confirmed as promoted sides for the new season. Lobi Stars, Akwa United, Heartland (before their re-inclusion), and Sunshine Stars have been officially relegated.
The 2025/26 NPFL season kicks off on 22 August with a blockbuster opening weekend. Defending champions Remo Stars will lock horns with Rivers United in a mouthwatering fixture. Other opening ties include:
Abia Warriors vs Kano Pillars
Wikki Tourists vs Plateau United
Katsina United vs Warri Wolves
Rangers vs Kun Khalifat
Kwara United vs Ikorodu City
Elkanemi Warriors vs Bendel Insurance
3SC vs Bayelsa United
Barau FC vs Enyimba
Niger Tornadoes vs Nasarawa United
Football fans across the country now have their eyes firmly set on 22 August, as the race for NPFL glory begins once again.
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