Relegated NPFL Clubs Eye Shortcut Back to Top Flight Through Slot Buyouts

Relegated NPFL Clubs Eye Shortcut Back to Top Flight Through Slot Buyouts

By Admin 

There are strong indications that at least three clubs that were relegated from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the end of the 2024/2025 season are exploring alternative routes back to the top flight—without playing a single minute in the Nigeria National League (NNL).

Investigations by Complete Sports reveal that these unnamed clubs are actively lobbying to acquire the NPFL promotion slots of NNL teams expected to compete in the upcoming playoffs.

According to the competition format, eight teams will participate in the Super 8 playoffs, with four promotion spots up for grabs—two each for the Southern and Northern Conferences.

NNL Playoff Contenders:

Southern Conference:

Conference A: Warri Wolves, Crown FC (Ogbomoso)

Conference B: Kun Khalifat (Owerri), Osun United

Northern Conference:

Conference C: Wikki Tourists, Barau FC

Conference D: Yobe Desert Stars, Doma United

The four promotion slots will be awarded to the two top-performing teams from each conference after the playoffs.

However, sources close to the NNL’s inner workings reveal that some NPFL relegated clubs are already making overtures to these promotion hopefuls, offering to purchase their slots should they gain entry to the elite league.

 “The 2024/2025 NNL Super 8 playoffs will be unusually competitive,” a source familiar with the situation disclosed. “There’s immense financial pressure and influence from clubs recently relegated from the NPFL. Some are willing to spend heavily to reclaim top-flight status without earning it on the pitch.”

The development, while not unprecedented in Nigerian football, raises serious concerns about sporting integrity and governance in the nation's league system. While no official statements have been issued by the NNL or the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), observers say regulatory bodies will face a critical test in ensuring fairness, transparency, and adherence to promotion and relegation principles.