Danlami Alanana, Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria National League (NNL), has declared a zero-tolerance stance on substandard pitches as the league.
The NNL will embark on a nationwide inspection of stadium facilities to ensure a professional and hitch-free start to the new campaign which kick off is slated for November 8, 2025.
In a statement released by NNL management on Thursday, all 36 participating clubs have been directed to submit their proposed home venues by October 13, 2025 ahead of visits by the NNL inspection team.
Clubs are also expected to complete all registration and licensing formalities by October 24, 2025, as part of the pre-season compliance process.
Alanana emphasized that any venue failing to meet the league’s minimum standards will be disqualified from hosting matches.
“We strongly oppose poor pitches that lower the league’s quality and pose injury risks to players,” Alanana said.
“Beyond safety, they disrupt the free flow of football.
“The NNL is a professional league, and clubs must maintain acceptable pitch standards for the good of the game.”
Alanana further stressed that quality venues are crucial to achieving a successful and competitive season, urging clubs to prioritize infrastructure upgrades.
The ongoing inspection will evaluate pitch conditions, dressing room standards, media facilities, security arrangements, and crowd management systems, aligning with the league’s renewed focus on professionalism and global best practices.
The NNL management has also warned that failure to comply with operational and facility standards—or to meet registration deadlines—could attract severe sanctions, including disqualification.
With less than a month to the new season’s kick-off, clubs are under pressure to finalize all requirements and ensure their grounds meet the league’s upgraded standards for the 2025/2026 campaign.
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