Clubs competing in the 2025/2026 CAF Inter-Club competitions, including Nigeria’s representatives Remo Stars, Rivers United, Abia Warriors, and Kwara United, are set to receive increased financial rewards following a major decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The announcement was made during the CAF Executive Committee meeting held on Saturday in Rabat, Morocco, on the sidelines of preparations for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
One of the key resolutions from the high-level meeting was the substantial increase in participation prize money for clubs competing in the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup—the continent’s two most prestigious club tournaments.
According to CAF, clubs that previously received $50,000 for group stage qualification will now receive $100,000, representing a 100% increase in financial incentives.
This move is part of CAF’s broader plan to improve the financial viability and competitiveness of African club football, ensuring that participating teams have better resources to strengthen their squads, improve logistics, and enhance matchday experiences.
Nigerian Clubs to Benefit
NPFL reigning champions Remo Stars and Rivers United will represent Nigeria in the CAF Champions League, aiming to make a strong impression after both clubs showed promise in previous campaigns. Kwara United, who qualified by virtue of their recent President Federation Cup triumph, and Abia Warriors, who secured a spot via league standings, will campaign in the CAF Confederation Cup.
The increased prize money is expected to ease some of the financial burden typically associated with continental travel, accommodation, and player bonuses, and could serve as a strong motivation for Nigerian teams to push for deeper runs in the competition.
CAF’s Broader Strategy
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe reiterated the organization’s commitment to transforming African club football, not only through increased funding but also through reforms in officiating, infrastructure development, and broadcast partnerships.
“This is part of our continuous efforts to make African football globally competitive. We want to see more African clubs thrive and challenge at the highest levels, and financial support is key to that ambition,” Motsepe said.
The updated financial structure is expected to be fully implemented starting from the preliminary rounds, which kick off in August 2025. Further incentives may also be introduced for clubs that progress beyond the group stages.
In a related development, CAF also approved improvements to refereeing appointments, club licensing, and stadium assessments—measures aimed at raising the overall standard of competition in the inter-club tournaments.