NPFL Champions To Earn ₦1 Billion As NSC Unveils Historic Prize Money Increase

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced a major financial overhaul of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), with next season’s champions set to pocket a record ₦1 Billion in prize money.

The new reward package, unveiled during a strategic meeting between the NSC and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in Abuja on Tuesday, marks a significant jump from the current ₦200m awarded to league winners.

The meeting brought together NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko, Director-General Bukola Olopade, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi and Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle.

According to a statement signed by the NSC Director of Press, Dr Kehinde Ajayi, the revised prize structure is designed to benefit clubs across the league table.

“Beginning from the next season, the league champions will receive a record ₦1 Billion prize money. The runners-up will earn ₦800m, while the third-placed team will receive ₦700m,” the statement read.

“Teams finishing further down the table will also receive financial rewards based on their final positions, ensuring that every club benefits from the enhanced revenue structure.”

In another far-reaching reform, the commission approved a minimum monthly salary of ₦2m for NPFL players, a substantial increase from the previous benchmark of ₦150,000.

The NSC believes the move will improve players’ welfare, strengthen the quality of competition and reduce the steady departure of talented footballers seeking opportunities overseas.

“Players must earn a living wage. This is how we build a league that commands respect at home and abroad,” Dikko stated.

The reforms will also see stricter enforcement of club licensing requirements as authorities seek to raise professional standards across the domestic game.

Plans are equally underway to restore regular television coverage of the league, a development expected to expand its audience, improve fan engagement and attract new commercial partners.

“Our players must be seen. Our league must be known. Television coverage is non-negotiable,” Dikko added.

The announcement comes with Enugu Rangers holding the status of reigning NPFL champions after securing the 2025/26 title, their ninth league crown.