By

Patrick Ngwaogu 

The Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO) has announced a return to the traditional home-and-away league format ahead of the 2026 football season, marking a major shift aimed at restoring competitiveness and the full spirit of grassroots football in the country.

 

In a circular issued to State Football Associations, the Board and Management of the NLO disclosed that league matches will revert to the classic structure beginning from the 2026 season, following previous adjustments made due to external circumstances.

 

According to the statement, the 2026 NLO season is scheduled to officially kick off on Friday, April 10, 2026. In preparation, the NLO Secretariat has directed all State Football Associations to submit an updated status report of affiliated clubs within their jurisdictions.

 

State FAs have been asked to forward the required information on or before Friday, February 27, 2026, to ensure a seamless registration process and effective fixture scheduling.

 

The requested details include a comprehensive list of all affiliated clubs in Division One and the U-19 Youth League that have successfully paid their affiliation and registration fees for the upcoming season. State FAs are also required to provide verification of home venues, including the name and location of the stadiums or pitches clubs intend to use as their home grounds. The NLO clarified that multiple clubs may adopt the same venue.

 

The league body emphasized that only clubs duly cleared by their respective State Football Associations and whose names appear on the submitted list will be considered for groupings and fixture allocation for the season.

 

The NLO expressed appreciation to State FAs for their continued cooperation, noting that the measures are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen and develop grassroots football across Nigeria.