Flaunting their phones with excitement, players of Akwa United and Sporting Lagos proudly displayed confirmation alerts after receiving the BetPawa Locker Room Bonus on MatchDay One of the Nigeria National League (NNL) season.

The incentive, exclusively earned by winning teams, sparked a wave of joy and motivation across stadiums nationwide on an opening day that produced 14 home victories and two away wins. Remarkably, the bonus alerts began dropping into players’ MoMo accounts almost immediately after the final whistle, catching many by surprise before they even left the pitch.

Smiling broadly and visibly elated, players of Akwa United showcased their phones moments after securing their win, proof of the prompt disbursement that has made the initiative popular among teams.

At the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Sporting Lagos players celebrated in similar fashion after their 3–1 triumph over Osun United, waving their phones while riding in the team bus. Each player received ₦56,000, the standard reward for MatchDay One winners.

A comparable scene unfolded in Ogbomoso, where Crown FC players celebrated their 3–0 victory over Heartland, showing off their own alerts with pride.

They were not alone. Abia Comets, Godswill Akpabio United, Doma United, Inter Lagos, Ekiti United, Lobi Stars, ABS FC, Bichi First FC, Jigawa Golden Stars, and Ranchers Bees were all recipients after posting victories on the league’s opening weekend.

Notably, Basira FC earned the distinction of being the first team to receive the BetPawa Locker Room Bonus this season.

The initiative—introduced by the George Aluo–led NNL board—has continued to draw commendation from supporters, players, and club officials alike. Many describe it as a “twin strike” that not only boosts player motivation but also helps reduce the financial strain on club managements across the league.

With excitement already palpable after MatchDay One, the Locker Room Bonus looks set to remain one of the NNL’s most impactful innovations this season.