NPFL Warns Clubs of Points Forfeiture Ahead of Season Finale Matchdays

Posted : 08 May 2026

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has issued a stern warning to all participating clubs ahead of the final two rounds of the 2025/26 season. Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi sent a practice directive on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. The memo explicitly states that all remaining fixtures for Matchday 37 and Matchday 38 must be played at the same time. This move aims to protect the competitive integrity of the league during its most critical phase.

The league body confirmed that all matches on these final days will kick off precisely at 4:00 p.m. local time. This scheduling ensures that no team gains an unfair advantage by knowing the results of their rivals beforehand. Owumi emphasized that sporting fairness is the primary goal of this directive. The league has faced intense scrutiny over fixture fidelity in previous seasons and intends to maintain a high standard this year.

Clubs have also been told that they cannot request changes to match dates or times due to stadium issues. Any team facing challenges with their home ground was required to provide an alternative accredited venue by May 7. If a club failed to communicate a viable backup, the NPFL will exercise its right to select a neutral venue for the fixture. This rule prevents teams from using logistical excuses to delay games or gain tactical benefits.

The consequences for defying these orders are severe under the current league regulations. Any club found guilty of disrupting the schedule will automatically forfeit three points and three goals. This penalty could be catastrophic for teams currently involved in the title race or the relegation battle. Rangers International and Rivers United are currently separated by just one point at the top of the table.

In the bottom half of the standings, several teams remain at risk of dropping into the National League. Simultaneous kick-offs are vital in these scenarios to prevent match manipulation. The NPFL management has been "intentional" about maintaining a seamless operation this season. They have worked closely with the NFF Competitions Department to avoid disruptions experienced in the past.

The 2025/26 season is officially scheduled to conclude on May 24, 2026. With the race for continental spots and survival reaching its peak, the league remains focused on strict rule enforcement. This directive serves as a final reminder that all administrative decisions are guided by the principle of transparency. Fans and stakeholders expect a clean finish to what has been a highly competitive campaign.

NPFL Warns Clubs of Points Forfeiture Ahead of Season Finale Matchdays

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