By Amaechi Agbo

The Nationwide League One (NLO) has declared the so-called N-Youth League an illegal competition, warning clubs registered under its platform against participating in leagues and football activities that have not received the requisite approval from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the relevant football authorities.

The NLO Secretariat disclosed that it had commenced disciplinary proceedings against clubs found to be participating or to have participated in the said competition, stressing that such involvement constitutes a breach of the league’s established Rules and Regulations.

The Secretariat maintained that, as of the date of its declaration, the N-Youth League had not presented evidence of current recognition or authorisation for the 2026/2027 season from the appropriate football authorities.

According to the NLO, while the competition may have received authorisation from the NFF for the 2024/2025 season, such approval, if limited to that season, cannot automatically be interpreted as a licence to operate in subsequent seasons without renewed authorisation.

The NLO consequently called on the organisers of the N-Youth League to provide full disclosure of their identity and documentary evidence of the necessary approval for the current season, emphasising that no parallel league structure can operate outside the established regulatory framework of Nigerian football.

Speaking on the development, the Chief Operating Officer of Nationwide League One, Dr. Olushola Ogunnowo, reiterated the league’s commitment to upholding football regulations and ensuring that all affiliated clubs operate within the recognised structure of the game.

Dr. Ogunnowo emphasised that compliance with established rules remains a fundamental obligation for every club registered under the NLO, noting that participation in unauthorised competitions cannot be justified outside the provisions of the applicable regulations.

He further stressed that the NLO would not compromise its regulatory responsibilities and that clubs must understand that registration with the league carries obligations that must be respected at all times.

The Secretariat specifically cited Article 3:01 (6) of the NLO Rules and Regulations, which prohibits NLO-registered clubs and players from participating in private leagues outside the recognised national league structure under the Nigeria Football Federation.

The NLO stated that the ongoing disciplinary process would be conducted in accordance with the applicable provisions of its Rules and Regulations. Potential sanctions, where established through the appropriate procedures, may include suspension and/or expulsion from the league.

All affected clubs have therefore been strongly advised to withdraw immediately from the unauthorised competition and discontinue any associated activities. The Secretariat warned that clubs and officials who disregard the directive could face the full consequences provided under the relevant regulations.

Beyond the immediate issue, the NLO urged all affiliated clubs to exercise due diligence before accepting invitations to participate in football competitions, tournaments or organised match series. Clubs were also directed to report suspicious or unsolicited invitations to the Secretariat for verification before making any commitment.

The league further emphasised that the existence of a competition or the involvement of clubs in its activities does not, in itself, establish official recognition or regulatory approval.

The Nationwide League One reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining discipline, protecting the integrity of its competitions and ensuring that all participating clubs adhere strictly to the rules governing organised football in Nigeria. The Secretariat concluded that its position is guided by the need to preserve an orderly, accountable and properly regulated football system, in which all clubs operate within the established framework of the NLO and the Nigeria Football Federation.