NNL Announces Registration Timeline, Requirements Ahead of 2025/26 Season

The Nigeria National League (NNL) has officially unveiled the registration guidelines for clubs preparing to participate in the upcoming 2025/26 season.

According to the league body, the registration portal will be open from Monday, October 6 to Friday, October 24.

To be eligible, clubs must submit Transfer Matching System (TMS) certificates, valid medical certificates, and insurance certificates for all registered players and officials.

The NNL warned that failure to meet the deadline will automatically rule out defaulting clubs from the upcoming campaign.

Reiterating the importance of discipline and planning, NNL Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Danlami Alanana, said the league is determined to stick to its calendar.

“We are doing everything possible to enable us tenaciously to stick to our planned programme of activities and would not want to be distracted. So we advise clubs to stick with us,” Alanana stated.

The new season is scheduled to kick off on Saturday, November 8, 2025.

Opinion

This bold move by the NNL to set clear timelines and requirements is not just administrative housekeeping — it’s a statement of intent. For years, Nigerian football leagues have struggled with irregular calendars, chaotic scheduling, and last-minute changes that often disrupt the rhythm of the game.

By insisting on deadlines and proper documentation, the NNL is laying down a foundation for professionalism. The emphasis on medical and insurance certificates is particularly commendable, as player welfare is often overlooked in local leagues.

However, the real test will be enforcement. Will the league have the resolve to actually bar clubs that fail to comply, even if they are “big names”? If the NNL can hold its ground, this season might mark a turning point where Nigerian football begins to run with the same consistency and structure as global standards.

Fans, players, and stakeholders should welcome this firmness — because for Nigerian football to thrive, discipline off the pitch is just as important as talent on it. ⚽🇳🇬