Sports
Special Feature: The Rise And Rise Of NPFL!
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) is on the rise and has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, largely thanks to the unwavering commitment of its strategic partners, the GTI Group.
By laying down robust structures for transparency and accountability, the GTI Group has significantly helped to improve the integrity and reputation of the elite league, ensuring that every dime from sponsors and investors of The Nigeria Football Fund (TNFF) are meticulously utilised and accounted for.
The GTI’s initiative to enhance transparency in the NPFL goes beyond mere intentions; it involves concrete actions that laid the groundwork for accountability. This commitment not only bolsters the league’s financial health but also promotes confidence among stakeholders, including fans, sponsors and players.
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One of the critical challenges that faced the NPFL before the coming of the GTI Group in the 2022/2023 season was crowd violence. However, the financial investment firm and the NPFL Board led by Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye have worked harmoniously and tackled this issue head-on by implementing measures to curb this menace at match venues.
The placement of trained security personnel, implementation of zero tolerance to crowd violence and the issuance of fines against erring clubs cum their fans have fostered a safer environment for lovers of the beautiful game in the country. As a result, match attendance has astronomically increased, allowing for a more vibrant and supportive atmosphere.
The enhanced transparency in match operations by the NPFL has also sparked renewed hope and a sense of friendly competition among clubs. With the increase in fair play and adherence to regulations, fans and players alike are experiencing a new wave of excitement.
This was exemplified on Match Day 3 of the ongoing 2024/2025 season, where the league witnessed an impressive display of five-star performance: five away wins, three draws, and two home wins. This feat has never happened in the history of the elite league and reflects the blossoming football economy of Africa’s most populous nation.
The GTI Group and the NPFL’s relentless efforts have laid the foundation for a prosperous league that attracts local and international talents from neighbouring countries in the round-leather game. By focusing on transparency, infrastructural development and security, the GTI and the NPFL are not just transforming the league; they are creating a sustainable environment where football can thrive.
As we celebrate these positive changes, it is essential to acknowledge the role of every stakeholder in this journey.
The NPFL is no longer just a platform for entertainment; it is a thriving business-oriented industry with the potential to inspire generations to come.
The transformation of the NPFL, championed by the GTI Group, reflects a brighter future for Nigerian football. With the ongoing commitment and collaboration, the NPFL will continue to flourish, bringing glory to clubs and excitement to fans across the world.
The newly appointed Manager of England’s senior male football team, the Three Lions, Thomas Tuchel has assured the country of winning the Fifa World Cup in 2026.
The German born tactician offered the assurances during his unveiling as the new Three Lions’ Manager at Wembley on Wednesday.
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Tuchel said, “I’m proud to be here, I’m proud to represent England. I want to put the second star on this shirt.
“We will work hard for the biggest target in football, making our dream come true at the World Cup 2026.
“I just have a German passport… but all of these supporters can feel my passion for the English Premier League, how I love to work here, how I love to live here… hopefully I can convince them I am proud to be an England manager.”
The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) has taken a defiant stance ahead of the crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Nigeria, stating that there will be “no room for excuses” as their players prepare for the clash.
The statement comes amid controversy surrounding Nigeria’s decision to pull out of the match following an extended delay at Al Abaq Airport.
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In a post on its official X account on Tuesday, the LFF shared images of the Libyan national team’s training session at the Martyrs of Benina International Stadium in Benghazi.
The federation emphasized its commitment to playing the match as scheduled, with a caption that read, “Some may be used to putting up obstacles before the match, but here in the heart of Benghazi, specifically on the grounds of the Martyrs of Benina Stadium, there is no room for excuses after the starting whistle.”
The fixture has been thrown into uncertainty after Nigeria’s Super Eagles and officials were stranded at the airport for over 16 hours following an unexpected flight diversion on Sunday.
This disruption led the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to announce their withdrawal from the Group D qualifier, originally slated for today.
The LFF has condemned Nigeria’s withdrawal and accused the NFF of failing to cooperate in organizing both the initial and return legs of the qualifying tie.
The Libyan federation further criticized Nigeria’s decision, contrasting it with their own experience during the first leg, where the Libyan team faced what they described as “inhumane conditions” in Nigeria but still fulfilled the fixture.
The LFF’s message comes as both federations remain at odds over the situation, raising the possibility of legal action, with Libya vowing to take all necessary steps to protect its national team’s interests in the AFCON qualifiers.
The Libyan Football Federation (LFF) has voiced its disapproval regarding the Super Eagles of Nigeria’s decision to withdraw from an upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, stating plans to take legal action against the Nigerian team.
The controversy arose when the Super Eagles arrived at Abraq International Airport, where they encountered significant travel disruptions less than 48 hours before their scheduled match against Libya’s Mediterranean Knights.
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Recall that the Nigerian contingent, which departed from Uyo on Sunday morning, was left stranded at the airport, raising serious safety concerns.
In light of these issues, the Nigerian players chose not to participate in the match, resulting in strong criticism from the LFF.
See statement below:
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