Two Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) venues have been ruled unfit after failing to meet club licensing standards despite both hosting matches on the opening weekend.
The Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, home to Kano Pillars and newly promoted Barau FC, was flagged for its poor pitch, inadequate dressing rooms, faulty technical benches and lack of standard floodlights.
Barau FC played their first-ever top-flight match at the ground, holding nine-time champions Enyimba to a goalless draw on match day one. Kano Pillars are also scheduled to use the venue this season.
Barau FC versus Enyimba international at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano in NPFL 2025/2026 match day one. Photo Credit: Barau FC/X
In the South-East, the Umuahia Township Stadium, used by Abia Warriors, was deemed substandard due to its deteriorating playing surface and insufficient maintenance.
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The Warriors began their campaign there with a 1-0 win over Kano Pillars.
Umuahia Township Stadium also plays host to NNL side Abia Comets and NWFL club Abia Angels. Photo Credit: Abia Warriors/X
League inspectors have directed both clubs to urgently upgrade their facilities including installing proper floodlights, improving dressing rooms, and relaying the pitches or face relocation to alternative grounds.
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The NPFL said the measures are designed to raise infrastructure quality and ensure stadiums meet broadcast standards for the 2025/26 season.
