In a bid to further elevate the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), the league’s board has partnered with leading sports management company, Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML), to organize the NPFL All-Star Game.
Scheduled to take place at the end of the season, this highly anticipated event will showcase top players from the northern and southern regions of Nigeria, competing in a thrilling showdown at a venue to be announced soon.
During the contract signing ceremony in Abuja, NPFL Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, “This marks another step in raising the profile of the league and creating a more engaging and entertaining environment for fans, players, and the private sector. We are constantly seeking innovative ways to grow the league, and we’re excited to have Nilayo Sports Management Limited on board to help make this happen.”
Hon. Bukola Olopade, Chairman of NSML, praised the NPFL board for its strides in improving officiating and competitive play. “We are excited to be part of this project. The league has seen impressive progress, including unexpected victories by underdog teams. This All-Star event will further enhance the league’s visibility,” he said.
Each player selected for the game will earn ₦1 million as an appearance fee, while coaches will receive ₦2 million each. “This incentive is another motivation for players to step up their game throughout the season, as everyone will strive to make the cut for the All-Star Game,” Olopade added.
The event will feature 22 players and two coaches from each zone. Celebrity coaches like Ayo Makun, Ali Baba, and Basketmouth will represent the South, with northern celebrity coaches to be revealed soon.
Additionally, Burna Boy and Davido are slated to perform at the game, a move aimed at attracting millennials, Gen Z, and Generation Alpha. “We want to create excitement around the league and draw in more private sector involvement,” Olopade concluded.
