NSC raises NPFL winner’s prize to N1bn

The National Sports Commission has announced a landmark increase in prize money for the Nigeria Premier Football League, with next season’s champions set to receive a record N1bn, up from the current N200m, as part of sweeping reforms aimed at transforming domestic football, The PUNCH reports.

The announcement was made by NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko during a high-level strategic meeting with officials of the Nigeria Football Federation on Tuesday in Abuja.

The meeting, held at the commission’s headquarters, was attended by Dikko, NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi and Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle.

According to a statement signed by the NSC Director of Press, Dr Kehinde Ajayi, the enhanced reward structure will extend beyond the league champions.

“Beginning from the next season, the league champions will receive a record N1bn prize money. The runners-up will earn N800m, while the third-placed team will receive N700m,” the statement read.

“Teams finishing further down the table will also receive financial rewards based on their final positions, ensuring that every club benefits from the enhanced revenue structure.”

In another major policy shift, the NSC approved a minimum monthly salary of N2m for NPFL players as part of efforts to improve welfare standards and strengthen the competitiveness of the domestic league.

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The commission believes the measure will help curb the exodus of talented players seeking better opportunities abroad while making the league more attractive to quality footballers.

“Players must earn a living wage. This is how we build a league that commands respect at home and abroad,” Dikko stated.

The previous minimum wage in the league was pegged at N150,000.

The reforms will also include stricter enforcement of club licensing regulations to ensure compliance with professional standards across the league.

In addition, the NSC disclosed that plans were at an advanced stage to return the NPFL to mainstream television, a move expected to boost the league’s visibility, increase fan engagement and attract greater commercial investment.

“Our players must be seen. Our league must be known. Television coverage is non-negotiable,” Dikko added.

Enugu Rangers are the reigning NPFL champions, having clinched the 2025/26 league title to secure their ninth crown in the competition’s history.