NPFL Clubs Must Upgrade Stadiums for VAR Implementation-Gusau
2 min read
By Sportsgister
The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) is set to undergo a major transformation with the introduction of Video Assistant Referees (VAR) in the 2025/26 season.
NPFL President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, made the announcement during the league’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja, where representatives from all 20 NPFL clubs gathered for the official fixture draw.
Gusau described the VAR rollout as a vital component of his broader reform agenda for Nigerian football. He emphasized the importance of accurate, fair, and transparent officiating, noting that VAR would significantly help in reducing matchday controversies and enhancing referee performance.
Gusau stressed that clubs must take responsibility and upgrade their home stadiums to meet VAR compliance requirements. “This is not just about technology—it’s about credibility, professionalism, and moving our league forward,” he said.
The NFF boss highlighted that the implementation of VAR will be tied to strict club licensing protocols. All NPFL clubs are expected to meet infrastructure, performance, and organizational benchmarks as mandatory prerequisites for participation in the upcoming season.
The introduction of VAR is expected to bring several benefits to the NPFL, including:
- Improved accuracyin crucial match decisions
- Fairer outcomes, with fewer officiating controversies
- Elevated credibility on the continental and international stage
- Infrastructure upgrades across participating clubs
With this bold move, Nigeria joins the ranks of African football nations such as Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa that have already adopted VAR in their domestic leagues.
The initiative aligns with CAF and FIFA’s modernization goals, positioning the NPFL for broader recognition and competitiveness.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
