By Victor Okoye
The National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF) has pledged to intensify player education on Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) rules, especially on betting and match-fixing.
NANPF President, Sunday Abe, made this known in a statement on Sunday in Abuja, stressing the association’s commitment to upholding the integrity of Nigerian football.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the move follows recent developments, including a betting allegation involving Plateau United goalkeeper, Adewale Adeyinka, which has prompted calls for greater awareness.
Abe said NANPF would take proactive steps to sensitise players on key sections of the NPFL Framework governing betting and match-fixing.
“As the voice of Nigerian players, NANPF condemns unethical conduct that threatens the integrity of the game,” he said.
He urged players to comply with Sections 15.5 and 15.6 of the NPFL Framework, which prohibit betting and match-fixing in any form.
Section 15.5 bars players, clubs or officials from directly or indirectly engaging in football-related betting or receiving inducements connected to matches.
Section 15.6 describes match-fixing as gross misconduct, involving inducement of match officials or club members to influence results or decisions.
Abe stressed that ignorance of these rules would not be excused, adding that players must be fully informed of their responsibilities.
“NANPF is launching a sensitisation campaign across all clubs to ensure players understand the rules and uphold professionalism,” he added.
He said the initiative would help rebuild credibility in Nigerian football and strengthen its image internationally.
Abe also commended the NPFL leadership, especially Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, for his stance on transparency and discipline in the league.
“We applaud Owumi’s leadership in protecting the league’s integrity. NANPF is proud to support this vision,” he said.
The awareness drive, according to him, will feature workshops, seminars and club visits across the NPFL, NNL, NWFL and NLO leagues nationwide.
It will also involve content creators, simplified rulebooks, and a hotline for reporting suspected unethical behaviour. (NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
