President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Musa Gusau, has commended the transformative leadership of the Nigeria National League (NNL) Chairman, George Aluo, citing his efforts as instrumental in repositioning Nigeria’s second-tier football league.

Gusau’s message of appreciation was delivered during the third edition of the NNL Monthly Awards held on Tuesday in Abuja. Represented by the First Vice President of the NFF, Chief Felix Anyansi Agwu, Gusau praised the seamless organization of the league under Aluo’s guidance, highlighting the notable strides made since he assumed office.

According to the NFF President, the monthly awards initiative has added significant value to the league, enhancing its visibility and competitiveness.

“The NNL has taken on a new look under George Aluo’s leadership,” Gusau noted. “The monthly awards have motivated players, coaches, referees, and team officials, making the league more vibrant, transparent, and engaging.”

In his opening address, NNL Chairman George Aluo acknowledged the vital role of all participants — players, coaches, and clubs — in elevating the image of the league, describing the NNL as “the most important league in the country.”

“The Monthly Awards were created to recognize and reward outstanding performances across the league,” Aluo stated. “It’s a way of motivating excellence, discipline, and healthy competition.”

He extended heartfelt gratitude to NFF President Gusau for his unwavering support and for granting the NNL board the autonomy to operate and innovate.

Aluo also emphasized the growing strength and quality of the league, pointing to recent results in the President Federation Cup where NNL clubs have outperformed their top-tier counterparts from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

“Exceptional achievements are within our reach when we stand on the pillars of integrity, hard work, and determination,” Aluo remarked. “Success doesn’t happen by chance — it is a product of sincere effort, intelligent planning, and skilled execution.”

He expressed pride in honoring the February 2025 award recipients, calling them exemplary ambassadors of the league who not only made their clubs proud but upheld core values such as discipline, dedication, and sportsmanship.

“Today is more than just a celebration of achievements,” Aluo concluded. “It is a recognition of values and virtues that define champions — and these young athletes have shown qualities that will lead them to greater success.”

The NNL chairman reaffirmed that the awards — which span seven categories: Best Behaved Team, Best Coach, Best Goalkeeper, Best Goal of the Month, Highest Goal Scorer, Most Valuable Player, and Best Referee — are a joint initiative between the league and its partners to promote consistent excellence within Nigerian football.