NSC Increases NPFL Prize Money To N1bn, Sets N2m Minimum Wage For Players

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has increased the prize money for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

It was gathered that the winners of the 2026/27 NPFL season will take home at least N1 billion in prize money, following a major increase approved by football authorities.

The announcement was made on Tuesday in Abuja by the NSC Chairman, Shehu Dikko, during a meeting involving senior officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

The new reward represents a significant rise from the previous N200 million awarded to league champions.

Under the proposed prize structure, the team that finishes second will receive N500 million, while the third-placed club will earn N300 million.

In addition to the increased prize money, stakeholders agreed to introduce a minimum wage of N2 million for players competing in the NPFL.

‘A major highlight of the meeting was that the champions of the 2026/27  NPFL season will receive a minimum prize money of ₦1 billion,” the NSC chairman said.

“The runners-up will receive ₦500 million, while the third-placed team will earn ₦300 million, subject to official confirmation by league authorities.”

According to Dikko, the decisions are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the league, improve professionalism, attract greater commercial investment, and make Nigerian football more competitive.

He said, “I want to thank the NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, and the General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, for a very productive engagement.

“The issues discussed today are fundamental to the growth and development of Nigerian football.

“Collectively, we share the same ambition and vision of moving Nigerian football forward and ensuring sustained success at every level.”

Another key outcome of the meeting was an agreement by the NSC, NFF, and NPFL leadership to enforce stricter club licensing rules.

Rather than meeting only the minimum requirements, clubs will be expected to satisfy the highest standards set by the authorities.

Enugu Rangers emerged as champions of the 2025/26 NPFL season. However, officials have not yet announced the start date for the upcoming campaign.

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