The National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), have taken major steps towards repositioning Nigerian football following a high-level strategic meeting.
The gathering at the NSC Headquarters in Abuja was led by NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade, alongside NFF President Ibrahim Gusau.
Key football stakeholders were also present as the meeting produced far-reaching decisions aimed at strengthening the football ecosystem from grassroots to elite level.
Among the landmark resolutions reached were plans to introduce a ₦2.5 billion prize fund for the 2026/2027 Nigeria Premier Football League season.
The league champions will be set to earn at least ₦1 billion, while second and third-place teams will receive ₦500 million and ₦300 million respectively.
The meeting also agreed on measures to improve player welfare, strengthen club licensing compliance, return the domestic league to television screens.
Also, to create a more attractive environment for private sector investment in football.
In line with the long-term vision for Nigerian football development, the NSC and NFF also agreed on improved contract terms for Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle.
He will additionally oversee the U-23 National Team as part of efforts to establish continuity across the national team structure.
Attention was equally focused on the women’s game, with both institutions reaffirming their commitment to supporting the Super Falcons’ WAFCON title defence, while driving new funding initiatives and reforms for women’s football.
The meeting further highlighted the commitment of the Renewed Hope administration and the RHINSE framework to building a sustainable football economy.
The programme also aims to strengthen governance structures, attract investment and restore Nigerian football to its rightful place among Africa’s leading football nations.
