The Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) has secured a ₦20 billion investment after entering a long-term funding agreement with What Media Group (WMG).
The partnership will run for 10 years, with the women’s league beginning with an initial five-year phase subject to review and renewal. During this period, ₦1 billion will be committed annually, alongside a guaranteed 15 per cent year-on-year increase.
This major support ranks among the largest private investments in Nigerian football and is expected to significantly improve governance, visibility, and financial stability across both leagues.
Photo Credit: NWFL
Speaking at the Abuja unveiling, WMG Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Chichi Nwoko, described the ₦20 billion deal as a major step towards reshaping the local game.
“This is a long-term investment in structure, people, and possibilities. If women’s football in Nigeria is to truly compete globally, it must be built deliberately, funded properly, and managed professionally. That is what this commitment represents,” Nwoko said.
“This is a bold commitment to building a stable and viable NWFL competition, while producing talents who will represent Nigeria from junior to senior levels. This ₦20 billion investment is about sustainability, growth, and global relevance.”
Photo Credit: NWFL
She also confirmed that the Nigeria National League (NNL) will receive a matching ₦20 billion over the same 10-year partnership.
As part of the arrangement, WMG becomes the title sponsor and commercial partner of both competitions, with funds allocated to higher prize money, improved club funding, officiating standards, grassroots development, and expanded media coverage.
The NWFL will initially benefit from a five-year phase, with the option for renewal after review. The league will receive ₦1 billion each year, with a guaranteed 15 per cent annual increase. ₦200 million has been earmarked for league administration, while ₦800 million will be used for branding, marketing, and commercial development.
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The partnership forms part of WMG’s long-term plan to professionalise the NWFL, strengthen its structures, and position it as a leading women’s football league in Africa.
Photo Credit: NWFL
NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi thanked WMG for the partnership, saying the funds would be managed to drive progress and professionalism in the league.
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Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, described the partnership as a sign of growing trust in reforms within Nigerian sports.
“This partnership is a clear vote of confidence in the reforms taking place across Nigerian sports. We are intentional about creating an environment where credible private investors can work with government to build sustainable leagues, protect athlete welfare, and grow the sports economy,” Olopade said.
