By Victor Okoye
Abuja, Aug. 24, 2025 (NAN) The National Association of Nigeria Professional Footballers (NANPF) has pledged to intensify player education on NPFL rules, especially in areas of betting and match-fixing.
NANPF President, Sunday Abe, said the association is committed to working with the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) to uphold the integrity of Nigerian football.
The move follows recent developments, including a betting allegation involving Plateau United goalkeeper Adewale Adeyinka, which prompted calls for greater awareness.
Abe said NANPF will 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,” Abe said in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.
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 participating in football-related betting or receiving inducements in connection to matches.
Section 15.6 describes match-fixing as gross misconduct, involving inducement of match officials or club members to influence match results or decisions.
Abe stressed that ignorance of these rules is not a valid excuse and 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 will help rebuild credibility in Nigerian football and strengthen its image at the international level.
Abe also commended the NPFL leadership, especially COO 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,” Abe said.
The awareness drive will feature workshops, seminars, and club visits across the NPFL, NNL, NWFL and NLO leagues nationwide.
The campaign will also involve content creators, simplified rulebooks, and a hotline for reporting suspected unethical behaviour.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
