NLO Cup 2026: Ogunnowo shares reasons for new competition

The Nationwide League One (NLO) has launched a new cup competition. This move aims to respond to clubs' complaints about not having enough matches in the current league format. Olushola Ogunnowo, the Chief Operating Officer, shared this information.

The cup competition will include clubs from Divisions One and Two. It is set to kick off on 10 October. Each team must pay a non-refundable registration fee of N1 million to join.

Mr Ogunnowo explained that the competition is meant to help clubs with different financial situations. It also gives players more chances to compete and show their skills.

He said, "The league had received complaints from some clubs about the number of matches available to them. We needed a format that could address their concerns without imposing additional financial burdens on others." He added, "As a responsible public body, we have to cater for all parties."

The NLO has kept the stadium format for Divisions One and Two. The new cup competition gives clubs that want to play more matches another option.

"We have modelled a stadium league for Division One and Two in the Nationwide League. We now came up with another competition, a cup competition like we have across Europe, for clubs in both divisions that can afford to play," he said.

Mr Ogunnowo mentioned the league is happy with the feedback since they announced the cup. Many clubs have shown support for the new idea.

On 14 September, the NLO Secretariat sent out a circular with the registration details and rules for the new competition. Clubs in Divisions One and Two must pay a non-refundable registration fee of N1 million. This fee will help cover match logistics.

Clubs should pay the fee into the league’s designated FCMB account. They need to send proof of payment to the secretariat for verification and registration clearance.

The competition will use a regional home-and-away format. This allows clubs to choose their preferred home grounds. Clubs that have logistical challenges or are close to each other can share facilities. NLO Secretariat must approve this to ensure smooth scheduling.

Each club also needs to submit their proposed home grounds before the competition starts. This will help with zonal allocation and fixture arrangements.

The league hopes to give players more visibility and create chances for international careers. All matches will be livestreamed on the league’s official platform. This way, international scouts, club directors, and foreign representatives can watch players perform in real time.

Three technology partners will support the initiative: FutbalConnect, SofaScore, and Zkyte Technologies. FutbalConnect will help connect players with international scouts, agencies, and clubs. SofaScore will provide live scores, player statistics, and performance analytics.

Zkyte Technologies will manage streaming delivery, digital infrastructure, and broadcasting technology. The league has also told clubs to update their team rosters and player profiles for digital media registration and broadcast profiling.

This digital coverage is part of the NLO's plan to improve players’ exposure, enhance returns on investment for clubs, and promote talent development. The introduction of the NLO Cup aims to create more competitive opportunities in Nigeria’s lower-tier football while considering the financial realities of the clubs.

The NLO wants to keep its current league format while adding the cup competition. This gives clubs more freedom in choosing their level of participation without making the new schedule mandatory for everyone.