The Nigeria National League (NNL) has issued a directive mandating all clubs to establish feeder teams or football academies, a move aimed at strengthening club structures, improving player development, and enhancing the overall quality of the league.

 

According to the league’s Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Danlami, feeder teams serve as an essential platform for grooming young talents, helping them develop and refine their skills before progressing to the senior team. He added that such structures can generate revenue for clubs and ensure a sustainable talent pipeline.

 

Mr. Danlami referenced Article 6:9.1 of the NNL Codified Rules and Regulations, which outlines the importance of feeder teams as part of club obligations within the league system.

 

The NNL has instructed all clubs to submit details of their feeder team players to the league secretariat for directory and authentication purposes. Compliance, the league stated, is not optional but part of the mandatory requirements for club registration.

 

Clubs that do not yet have feeder teams have been given a one-month deadline to comply or risk sanctions from the league body.

 

The NNL believes that prioritising feeder teams will enhance youth development and contribute significantly to building a stronger and more vibrant football landscape in Nigeria.