Photo: NNL chairman, George Aluo
By Ifeanyi Eduzor
Towards ensuring a successful 2024/25 Nigeria National League (NNL) season billed to commence on November 30th, NNL Chairman Mr. George Aluo has advised all participating clubs to adhere to the spirit of sportsmanship by avoiding violence.
He emphasized the importance of crowd control and unrestricted live streaming of both home and away matches.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the NNL Clubs’ Coaches and Media Managers Workshop held at Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, Mr. Aluo reiterated the league’s commitment to fair play and the safety of match officials.
Aluo assured the participants of timely payment of referees’ indemnities, a move aimed at maintaining impartial officiating in all matches. “We are dedicated to creating a league where clubs can achieve victory solely on their performance, regardless of venue. Referees’ indemnities will be paid on time to support unbiased officiating”.
He called on clubs to dispense with the notion that they will experience bias officiating at away games.
Aluo encouraged clubs to allow away teams to freely stream matches, emphasising that clubs should have no concerns if they conduct matches fairly.
“We want a league where results are earned without controversy. Club managers are aware of the individuals who cause trouble, and it is essential we work together to eliminate such practices”.
He urged coaches to be cautious in their action in order not to incite the fans, even as he called on media officers to avoid inflammatory stories.
“It’s time to end the cycle of ‘we rob you, you rob us.’ The NNL board remains impartial and will not favor any club. Any grievances should be directed to the secretariat, where it will be addressed promptly.”
NNL Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Ayo Abdulrahman praised Mr. Aluo for his unwavering commitment to repositioning the league. He reminded coaches of the strict requirement to use the official league ball for training and match play.
The Pre season Seminar was handled by veteran coach Alphonsus Dike, Former Super Eagles player and Assitant coach Fatai Amoo, Caf and Fifa referees’ instructor Calistus Chukwujekwu, top media Practioners Tony Ubani, John Joshua-Akanji and Oluchi Tobex Tobechukwu.
