NSC increases NPFL winner's prize to N1bn

The National Sports Commission has made a big announcement. Next season's champions of the Nigeria Premier Football League will get a prize of N1bn. This is a huge jump from the current N200m. This change is part of plans to improve football in Nigeria, according to The PUNCH.

NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko shared this news during a meeting with officials from the Nigeria Football Federation in Abuja on Tuesday. The meeting took place at the commission's offices. Dikko was joined by NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi, and Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle.

Dr Kehinde Ajayi, the NSC Director of Press, confirmed the new prize money structure. He said it will benefit more than just the league champions.

"Starting next season, the league champions will get a record N1bn. The runners-up will receive N800m, while the third team will get N700m," the statement said.

"Teams that finish lower will also get some money based on their positions. This means all clubs will enjoy the new reward system."

In another important change, the NSC has set a minimum monthly salary of N2m for NPFL players. This is part of efforts to improve players' welfare and make the league more competitive.

The commission hopes this will help stop talented players from leaving Nigeria for better opportunities abroad. It will also make the league more appealing to good players.

"Players must earn a living wage. This is how we build a league that earns respect at home and abroad," Dikko said.

Before this, the minimum wage for players was N150,000.

The reforms will also include stronger rules for club licensing. This will ensure that all clubs meet professional standards.

Additionally, the NSC said they are working on bringing NPFL matches back to mainstream television. This move aims to make the league more visible, get more fans involved, and attract more investment.

"Our players must be seen. Our league must be known. Television coverage is key," Dikko added.

Enugu Rangers are the current NPFL champions. They won the 2025/26 league title, marking their ninth title in the league's history.