Marketing consultants to the Nigeria National League (NNL), Skybound J & B Connect Ltd, have commended the growing corporate support for the nation’s second-tier football league, describing it as a positive reflection of the reforms currently being implemented by the league’s leadership.

 

The Chief Executive Officer of Skybound J & B Connect Ltd, John Joshua Akanji, made this known in a statement released to the media in Lagos, where he expressed delight at the sponsorship deals recently secured by the NNL.

 

According to Akanji, the increasing interest from corporate bodies is a direct result of the “excellent job” being carried out by the George Aluo-led NNL Board.

 

“The ground-breaking mega partnership deals secured by the Nigerian National League Board are an indication of the confidence, trust and new direction provided by the George Aluo-led Board,” Akanji stated.

 

He noted that the Nigerian National League has undergone significant transformation in recent times, citing improved standards of play, better officiating and a drastic reduction in violence as key factors attracting corporate attention to the league.

 

“Every discerning person can see the impact of the transformative leadership at the NNL under the able leadership of Mr George Aluo. This is the reason why corporate bodies are investing in the Nigerian National League,” he said.

 

Akanji recalled that in the past, sponsors were reluctant to invest in the league due to challenges such as poor officiating, crowd violence and the notorious “win-at-home syndrome.” He, however, expressed satisfaction that the narrative has changed.

 

“Happily, today the story is changing as teams now win on the road without fear of being attacked or molested by the fans of the losing teams. This is a new dawn for Nigerian football,” he added.

 

He further applauded companies such as BetPawa and TopTier Sports Management (TSM) for throwing their weight behind the league, while also revealing that discussions with BlockChain Sports Arena are at an advanced stage, with a deal almost secured.

 

Akanji urged other corporate bodies, individuals and organizations to take a cue from these sponsors and support what he described as “the Most Important League” in Nigerian football.

 

“For us at Skybound J & B Connect Ltd, we are proud to be part of the new dawn in the NNL. Things can only get better,” the statement affirmed.

 

It would be recalled that the Nigeria National League recently secured a major sponsorship deal with gaming company BetPawa valued at over ₦494 million, which includes a unique Locker Room Bonus initiative for players and coaches. Additionally, TopTier Sports Management (TSM) is set to inject billions of naira into the league over a 10-year period, further strengthening the league’s financial outlook.