Nigerian National League Chairman Chief George Aluo has advised the eight football teams that made it to the NNL SUPER 8 to follow FIFA rules.
Chief Aluo spearheaded the charge during the playoff draws, which were held at the Steven Keshi International Stadium in Asaba.
The NNL Chairman stated that all teams must abide by the rules since the organisation is committed to promoting Nigerian football and will keep up its enforcement of the game’s values.
He assured the teams that the NNL will make sure the competition ran smoothly.
In addition to highlighting the significance of high-quality officiating, Chief Aluo made it clear that the NNL would not put up with biassed officiating of any kind and would not hesitate to reprimand an inept arbiter.
The NNL Chairman revealed that any player who had received cards or been suspended due to them would begin anew because the Super 8 was immune from the sanctions.
He did, however, issue a warning, stating that teams would not be allowed to use players who are registered outside of the regular season as this would result in the appropriate penalties of three goals, three points, and a fine.
Delta State Football Association head Chief Godwin Adode said in his welcoming address that he was thrilled that Deta State was chosen to host the NNL SUPER 8, calling it a clear indication that the State was the ideal venue for Nigerian sports.
Chef Adode promised the teams support and a smooth competition, and he congratulated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for agreeing to host the Super 8, saying it further showed his dedication to the development of sports in Delta State and Nigeria.
The DFA chairman also thanked the NNL Board for their support of Delta State, stating that they would not make the decision lightly because Deltans were ardent sports lovers and it would be another opportunity to display their enthusiasm.
In order to support the state’s beloved team, the Warri Wolves, as they try to overcome the last hurdle in their quest for promotion to the elite Nigeria Professional Football League, or NPFL, he urged Deltans to swarm the stadium to see the beautiful game.
The Barau Football Club will play the Yobe Desert Stars at 9 a.m. on Saturday to kick off the NNL Super 8.
Wikki Tourists of Bauchi will play its neighbour, Doma United of Gombe, in the second game of the northern conference.
Crown Football Club of Ogbomoso will meet Kun Khalifat Football Club of Owerri at 2 p.m., while Warri Wolves will play Osun United of Oshogbo at 4 p.m. in the southern conference.
The matches will all be place at Asaba’s Steven Keshi International Stadium.
The second group games will be played on Monday after a day break on Sunday.
A final game between the top teams in each group would determine the 2024–2025 NNL Season Champion.