NSC Raises NPFL Champions’ Prize To ₦1 Billion, Introduces ₦2 Million Minimum Wages For Players
By Odunuga Yusuf
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced a landmark increase in the prize money for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), with the champions of the 2026/2027 season set to receive a minimum of ₦1 billion, representing a fivefold increase from the previous ₦200 million reward.
The announcement was made on Tuesday in Abuja by the Chairman of the NSC, Shehu Dikko, following a strategic meeting with top officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) aimed at strengthening the growth and development of football in the country.
In addition to the significant increase in prize money, the NSC and the NFF also agreed to introduce a minimum monthly wage of ₦2 million for NPFL players, a move widely regarded as a major step toward improving players’ welfare and professional standards within the domestic league.
Speaking after the meeting, Dikko described the new financial framework as a transformative initiative designed to boost the commercial appeal, competitiveness, and professionalism of the NPFL.
“A major highlight of the meeting was that the champions of the 2026/2027 NPFL season will receive a minimum prize money of ₦1 billion,” Dikko stated.
He further disclosed that the league’s runners-up are expected to earn ₦500 million, while the third-placed team will receive ₦300 million, subject to final confirmation by the league authorities.
According to the NSC Chairman, the enhanced reward structure forms part of broader reforms aimed at repositioning Nigerian football and making the domestic league more attractive to investors, sponsors, clubs, and talented players.
Dikko also commended the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation for their commitment to advancing the game.
“I want to thank the NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, and the General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, for a very productive engagement. The issues discussed today are fundamental to the growth and development of Nigerian football,” he said.
Football stakeholders have welcomed the development, noting that the improved prize incentives and player welfare package could help raise the standard of competition in the NPFL, retain local talents, and strengthen the league’s reputation across Africa.
The announcement marks one of the most significant financial commitments to Nigerian domestic football in recent years and underscores ongoing efforts by sports authorities to reposition the NPFL as a more viable and commercially competitive league.
