The Chairman of the Nigeria National League (NNL), George Aluo, has revealed that this season’s NNL champions will be awarded Five Million Naira (#5M) as prize money. The announcement was made during a media briefing on Thursday morning at the NNL Headquarters in Abuja.
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Aluo expressed his satisfaction with this development, noting that it is the first time the league champions will receive a financial reward from the league organizers. “Courtesy of our insurance partners, the winners of this season’s NNL will smile home with N5m. It can only get better because that’s not the kind of money we intend to dole out to the champions but at least it’s the first time the winners will get a financial prize,” he stated.
Highlighting the upcoming Super 8 tournament, Aluo announced that the opening match will feature El-Kanemi Warriors against Nasarawa United. Both teams, relegated last season, will face off in what promises to be an exciting start to the competition.
Aluo praised the referees for their efforts in ensuring fair play throughout the season, noting significant improvements in the league’s officiating standards. “For the first time in the history of the NNL, clubs were getting results on the road. The referees did their best to ensure the best team won, and those found wanting were shown the exit doors. In fact, there was a particular week where seven referees were axed,” he explained.
The regular season saw 356 games played, with 107 away wins, 88 draws, and 225 home victories. A total of 764 goals were scored, averaging 2 goals per match, indicating a competitive season.
The Super 8 tournament is scheduled to take place from June 7th to 14th. Matches will be streamed live, and Radio Nigeria will provide live commentary. Awards will be presented to the best goalkeeper, Most Valuable Player, highest goal scorer, and best referee.
Aluo concluded, “We are set for the Super 8, and everything has been put in place to ensure a successful tournament.”