The Secretariat of the Nationwide League One (NLO) has issued a stern call to media practitioners and content creators across the country, urging them to exercise greater responsibility and professionalism in their football reporting.

 

In an official statement released by the Chief Operating Officer of NLO, Olushola Ogunnowo, the Secretariat expressed concern over the recent circulation of what it described as potentially harmful reports and narratives that could derail the growth and integrity of football development in Nigeria.

 

“It has come to our attention that some recent reports and stories circulating on various platforms may contain information that could potentially hinder the development of football in Nigeria,” the statement read.

 

Emphasizing that football is a crucial element of Nigeria’s national identity, Ogunnowo highlighted the sport’s role in youth empowerment, community building, and national pride. He warned that misinformation and unverified content not only damage reputations but also undermine the collective efforts of stakeholders working to advance the game.

 

The NLO Secretariat appealed to the media to adhere to key ethical practices, including:

• Thorough verification of information before publishing,

• A focus on promoting positive stories that reflect progress in Nigerian football,

• Avoiding unsubstantiated rumors or damaging narratives, and

• Collaborating with credible sources to ensure accurate and balanced reporting.

 

Ogunnowo reiterated the NLO’s commitment to building a vibrant and transparent football ecosystem, calling on journalists and content creators to act as partners in that vision.

 

“Together, we can foster a thriving football environment that inspires future generations and uplifts our nation’s sporting ambitions,” he concluded.

 

The statement serves as a timely reminder of the powerful role the media plays in shaping the perception and future of sports in Nigeria, especially at the grassroots level where the foundation for national talent is laid.