By Victor Okoye

The Nigeria Association of National Professional Footballers (NANPF) has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and league organisers to prioritise safety and fan experience at domestic match venues.

It made the appeal on Saturday in Abuja, citing the need to improve security and inclusivity at all levels of Nigerian football.

The call was directed at the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Nigeria National League (NNL), and Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO).

CSP Chijioke Kalu, Director of Player Safety and Security at NANPF, said recent crowd incidents had exposed critical gaps in matchday safety.

“The disturbing incident during the Rangers vs. Enyimba match in Enugu must not happen again,” Kalu said.

He urged a shift from reactive measures to proactive safety planning at all league levels.

Kalu called on clubs, stadium operators, and league officials to prioritise the needs of children, women, the elderly, and persons with disabilities (PWDs).

“Every fan, regardless of age or ability, should feel safe and respected at our stadiums,” he said.

NANPF recommended visible signage to guide spectators, including child-friendly zones and family seating.

Kalu also proposed safety instructions in local languages to aid understanding among all fan groups.

He advocated the use of mobile technology to improve navigation, emergency response, and accessibility on matchdays.

“Technology should improve not just ticketing, but also emergency access and fan support,” he said.

Kalu urged clubs to partner with the Nigeria Police Force, NSCDC, and emergency services before, during, and after matches.

He recommended regular pre-match briefings, simulation drills, and coordinated emergency plans.

“Every club, regardless of location, must take full responsibility for fan safety,” he said.

He noted that some stadiums, such as the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, have met acceptable standards.

However, he stressed that rural and urban venues across the leagues must be upgraded.

“It’s not enough to have a few world-class venues. Fans in every city deserve safety and dignity,” he said.

To reduce congestion, NANPF called for the deployment of trained volunteers and matchday stewards at stadium entry and exit points.

These personnel, he said would assist vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, PWDs, and elderly fans.

“Creating a safe matchday experience is everyone’s responsibility,” Kalu added.

He reaffirmed NANPF’s commitment to working with clubs and local authorities to eliminate violence and poor crowd control at match venues.

“Our leagues must not be defined by chaos but by professionalism and fan care,” he said.

NANPF’s recommendations are part of its ongoing League Safety and Inclusion Campaign, which aims to improve matchday conditions across Nigeria’s football landscape. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade