Nigeria vs Jordan: Live Updates from Super Eagles friendly in Turkey

The Nationwide League One, NLO, has resolved to return to a stadium-based league format for the 2026 season, citing security concerns and the financial strain of a traditional home-and-away schedule.

The decision was reached at the league’s Annual General Meeting, held virtually on Saturday, February 28, 2026.

Delegates at the meeting also appealed for an extension on registration fees to ease the burden on clubs.

The NLO said the venue for the league fixtures will be announced at a later date.

The stadium-based model is expected to reduce travel costs and improve match security, while also making games more TV-friendly.

DAILY POST recalls that the NLO has faced challenges in recent years with club funding and match security, prompting calls for structural reforms.

Officials said the new format is part of broader efforts to stabilize the league and create a more sustainable structure for clubs.

NLO adopts stadium-based league format for 2026 season

Nigerian coach, Eric Chelle has said he believes the Africa Cup of Nations has grown to be better than than leagues in Europe.

According to the former Mali coach, Africa just needs to develop their coaches to match the standard out there in Europe and the world.

Addressing a press conference on Friday, Chelle called for more seriousness in the way football is handled in Africa.

“We have to create our own identity. For me, this AFCON is better than the league in Europe. This is great,” he said.

A win for Eric Chelle’s side means they will become leaders of their group and also book their place in the knockout stages.

Nigeria will be depending on the likes of Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze and Akor Adams to produce results on Saturday.

In their opening game against Tanzania, it was Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman that produced the goals as Osimhen wasted some scoring opportunities.

AFCON better than leagues in Europe – Eric Chelle

Chuba Iwobi, father of Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi, has shared insights on the key impact Nigerian football legend Austin Jay-Jay Okocha has had on his son’s career.

Okocha, a former Super Eagles player, is the uncle of Alex.

In an interview with Molatsportsgist, Chuba shared how Okocha has consistently inspired his nephew, Alex.

“Uncle Jay-Jay has been an inspiration to Alex. When he was at the Arsenal academy, we often visited Bolton to watch Jay-Jay play,” Chuba explained.

“Alex has his own playing style, but he is also influenced by the skills and the technical ability of his uncle, and Jay-Jay has always been there for him.”

Okocha, who last played his club football at English side Hull City, retired from professional football in 2008.

AFCON: Alex Iwobi’s father, Chuba opens up on Jay-Jay Okocha’s influence on son