NLO Tasks Clubs To Secure Home Ground Ahead Of Cup Engagement 

By Saheed Afolabi

The Nationwide League One (NLO) Secretariat has directed all participating clubs in the NLO Cup to ensure adequate security and proper preparation of their designated home grounds, while mandating the prominent display of pitch panels featuring club names, partners, and sponsors.

The NLO Cup has been scheduled to start on October 17 after an initial extension from the previous start date of October 10.

In an official directive to participating clubs, the Secretariat stressed the importance of proper venue preparation, effective security arrangements, and the maintenance of facilities to ensure the smooth and successful hosting of matches throughout the competition.

The directive also requires clubs to ensure that their playing surfaces, dressing rooms, and other ancillary facilities are maintained in good condition and are fully ready for match-day operations.

The NLO also urged clubs to maximise the commercial opportunities offered by pitch-side branding to enhance sponsor visibility, strengthen commercial partnerships, and attract potential investors.

The Secretariat emphasised that strict compliance with the directive is mandatory, warning that clubs found wanting in the preparation or security of their home grounds, or in the display of the required pitch panels, may be liable to appropriate sanctions as determined by the Competition Organising Committee.

All participating clubs are therefore urged to take the necessary measures to comply fully with the directive in the interest of safety, professionalism, and the continued growth of grassroots football in Nigeria.