NPFL Clubs Ordered To Upgrade Stadiums For VAR Introduction.
The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clubs have been directed to upgrade their stadium facilities to accommodate the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology for the 2025/26 season. The mandate was announced by Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), during the NPFL’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja on Monday, 28 July 2025.
Gusau emphasised that the adoption of VAR is a significant step towards enhancing the quality and fairness of matches in the NPFL, aligning the league with global football standards. “The era of VAR is coming to our league, and clubs must ensure their stadiums meet the required infrastructure standards,” he stated. The NFF president highlighted that the federation has already selected 10 computer-literate referees for VAR training in Morocco, with plans to commence the programme soon.
The directive follows a series of infrastructure requirements issued by the NPFL board in June 2025, mandating clubs to install standard LED floodlights and reliable backup power generators to facilitate night matches and ensure uninterrupted operations. Clubs failing to meet these standards risk losing the right to host home matches, with potential sanctions including the use of alternative venues. The NPFL’s Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, reiterated that these upgrades, alongside other Grade A infrastructure criteria, must be fully functional before routine stadium inspections ahead of the new season, set to commence in August 2025.
The move to implement VAR comes as part of broader efforts to professionalise the NPFL, which saw Remo Stars clinch their first-ever title in the 2024/25 season. Gusau also urged clubs to adhere strictly to match fixtures to avoid the accumulation of postponed games, a recurring issue that has previously disadvantaged teams not competing in continental competitions. “A harmonised calendar with top European leagues is a priority, and we must ensure a seamless season,” he added, commending the NPFL board for concluding the 2024/25 season on schedule, aligning with major leagues like the English Premier League.
The AGM, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, also featured the draw ceremony for the 2025/26 season fixtures and formally welcomed four newly promoted clubs—Kun Khalifa, Wikki Tourists, Barau FC, and Warri Wolves—while bidding farewell to relegated sides Lobi Stars, Sunshine Stars, Akwa United, and Heartland.
Clubs such as Abia Warriors, Kwara United, Niger Tornadoes, Plateau United, and El-Kanemi Warriors have been specifically instructed to address existing deficiencies in their facilities to comply with the new standards. The NPFL’s commitment to raising infrastructure benchmarks aims to improve the matchday experience for players, officials, and fans, while ensuring the league remains competitive on the continental stage.
Gusau’s announcement has sparked discussions among fans and stakeholders, with many expressing optimism about VAR’s potential to reduce officiating controversies. However, some have raised concerns about the readiness of clubs to meet the financial and logistical demands of the upgrades. Posts on X reflect mixed sentiments, with some questioning whether the referee training has begun and others praising the NFF’s forward-thinking approach.
As the NPFL prepares for the new season, the focus on infrastructure and technology underscores a broader vision to elevate Nigerian football. With the league set to kick off on 22 August 2025, clubs are under pressure to act swiftly to ensure their stadiums are VAR-ready, marking a new chapter in the NPFL’s development.
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