The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has directed Kano Pillars, Barau FC, and Abia Warriors to urgently improve their home grounds or face the possibility of being banned from hosting games in those venues.
Currently, Kano Pillars and Barau FC share the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, while Abia Warriors play at the Umuahia Township Stadium. The league body stated that both venues fall short of the minimum standards required for television coverage and competitive matches.
According to the NPFL, the areas needing urgent attention include the playing surface, dressing rooms, technical benches, and the installation of standard floodlights. It specifically criticized the Umuahia Township Stadium, describing it as “unfit for league football” and below broadcast quality.
The league warned that clubs that fail to comply with the directives will be forced to play at neutral grounds.
The statement came shortly after Abia Warriors defeated Kano Pillars 1-0 in Umuahia during their first game of the 2025/26 season. Meanwhile, Barau FC endured a frustrating debut, playing out a goalless draw against Enyimba at the Sani Abacha Stadium. Their head coach, Ladan Bosso, expressed disappointment, insisting his side deserved victory.
Other opening weekend results included Wikki Tourists’ 1-0 win over Plateau United in Bauchi, El-Kanemi Warriors’ 2-0 victory against Bendel Insurance in Maiduguri, and Remo Stars’ 1-1 draw with Rivers United.
Niger Tornadoes, whose Minna home ground failed inspection, will play their early matches in Ilorin against Nasarawa United, pending a possible relocation to Lafia.
