N494M Boost For Nigeria's Second-Tier League As NNL Signs betPawa Deal

N494M Boost For Nigeria's Second-Tier League As NNL Signs betPawa Deal 

By Admin 

In a landmark deal, Africa’s leading sports betting and gaming brand, betPawa, has partnered with the Nigeria National League (NNL) in a one-year sponsorship worth over ₦400 million, introducing the innovative Locker Room Bonus — a first-of-its-kind system that rewards players directly for every victory.

Unlike traditional sponsorships that rarely trickle down to players, this initiative puts athletes at the center. With an automated digital platform that tracks and verifies line-ups, every winning player in the NNL will receive ₦56,000 directly into their mobile money wallets within minutes of the final whistle. In addition, the league itself will earn ₦400,000 for every match played each weekend — a dual boost for both players and the NNL.

Explaining the innovation, Borah Omary Ndanyungu, Head of Local Marketing & CSR at betPawa, said:

“We’re not just handing out cash, we’re building a system that lifts Nigerian football to the next level. This platform gives players the respect they deserve for every hard-fought victory — no delays, no drama.”

NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, welcomed the initiative, stressing its potential to retain talent in the domestic league.

“One of my major concerns has been how to keep our best players in the league. This is the way forward, and it will reflect positively on the growth of the game in Nigeria,” he said.

Earlier, NNL Chairman, George Aluo, also hailed the partnership, commending the NFF leadership for prioritizing grassroots football. He noted the impressive performance of NNL clubs, many of which have earned promotion to the NPFL in recent years.

Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Philip Shaibu, described the deal as a morale booster for players.

“This partnership will ginger the players to give their best and have a ricocheting effect on the league and the overall development of the game,” he said.

Beyond gaming, betPawa reiterated its commitment to driving positive change in African sports through innovative sponsorship models and CSR projects. The company says its long-term vision is to help professionalize sports across the continent.