NPFL eyes VAR introduction, warns clubs over stadium standards

The Chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Gbenga Elegbeleye, has disclosed that the league is actively seeking sponsorship to acquire Video Assistant Referee (VAR) machines for the topflight division, marking a significant step towards modernising officiating in Nigerian football. “The next level now is that we want to advance to the level of […]

The Chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Gbenga Elegbeleye, has disclosed that the league is actively seeking sponsorship to acquire Video Assistant Referee (VAR) machines for the topflight division, marking a significant step towards modernising officiating in Nigerian football.

“The next level now is that we want to advance to the level of having a VAR here,” Elegbeleye said. “We are looking for sponsors to be able to acquire the VAR machine. We are ready to go the VAR way, but the machines are quite expensive. You also need to train those who will operate it.”

Elegbeleye further revealed that 10 NPFL referees, all computer literate, have been shortlisted by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for training in Morocco to prepare for the VAR rollout.

“We had an online meeting with the manufacturers and producers of the VAR machines,” he added. “Before you can use it, you must be able to use communication gadgets. It’s not about always going to the screen—you can communicate with the VAR team, and they’ll guide your decision.”

In a separate development, the NPFL has issued a strict directive to clubs, warning that any stadium lacking standard LED floodlights and a standby power generator will not be approved to host matches in the 2025/26 season.

Davidson Owumi, Chief Operating Officer of the NPFL, reiterated the league’s position in a memo to clubs, stating that those who fail to meet these requirements will be forced to play their home games at alternative venues.