The Nationwide League One (NLO) has taken decisive action to uphold integrity and safety standards ahead of the 2025 season, disqualifying 44 players and suspending Usman Kabir for submitting false identity details during registration. The league’s medical screening revealed that the 44 players across 31 registered clubs were medically unfit to participate in the upcoming season due to various health conditions, including systemic hypertension.
Offa Football Club had the highest number of disqualified players with six, followed by Camp Pro FC of Abuja, which had four players ruled out. NLO Chief Operating Officer, Olushola Ogunnowo, explained that the affected players and clubs had been duly notified and would not be allowed to participate due to the risks posed by their health status.
“This is a preventive measure to preserve lives,” Ogunnowo said. With over 300 clubs across both NLO Division One and the NLO U19 category, medical tests are non-negotiable to protect players and reduce risks of serious incidents or sudden death.
In a separate disciplinary action, the NLO suspended Usman Kabir indefinitely for submitting false identity details during his registration with Camp Pro FC. An investigation revealed that Kabir had been registered with Mumbiava FC Kano during the 2023 and 2024 seasons under the name Abbati Muhammad Gola, violating NLO Article 3.01(5).
The NLO stated, “Clubs must also certify that the registered players are qualified to participate in the league according to the competition’s rules and regulations. Any club that submits false information may face appropriate sanctions from the board.” As a result, Kabir is prohibited from participating in any matches in the league until further notice.
The league body reminded all clubs and players that violations of registration rules will attract serious consequences, reiterating their commitment to enforcing rules to maintain fairness, safety, and trust in grassroots football. “We will continue to enforce our rules in order to maintain fairness, safety, and trust in grassroots football,” the NLO emphasized.
The NLO’s actions demonstrate its commitment to prioritizing player safety and maintaining the integrity of the league. As the 2025 season approaches, clubs and players must ensure compliance with registration rules and regulations to avoid sanctions.