The Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) has issued a stern warning to clubs regarding the consequences of failing to adhere to the scheduled dates and kick-off times for Matchday 37 and 38 fixtures, with only two matchdays remaining in the 2025/26 season.
Directive on Simultaneous Matches
In a directive released by the NPFL Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, clubs were reminded that all remaining matches must be played simultaneously to ensure sporting fairness and protect the integrity of results. The directive states that the games on Matchday 37 and 38 are scheduled for the same date and a kick-off time of 4:00 p.m.
“This decision is to ensure sporting fairness and to protect the integrity of our matches and results,” Owumi said in a memo addressed to the clubs.
Alternative Venue Requirements
The NPFL has instructed clubs not to request a change of date or time if they encounter issues with the availability of their accredited home grounds. Instead, clubs must select and communicate an alternative NPFL-accredited venue before the close of business on May 7, 2026. Failure to do so will result in the NPFL choosing a venue for the fixture.
“Should any club have issues with the unavailability of a regular venue, such club must choose and communicate an alternative NPFL-accredited venue before close of business on May 7, 2026. Should any club fail to do so, the NPFL will choose a venue for the fixture,” the memo stated.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The NPFL has invoked its rules to inform clubs that any breach of the directive will lead to the forfeiture of three points and three goals. This measure is intended to uphold the integrity of the league as it approaches its conclusion.
