Referees, Assessors, and Commissioners Owed for 11 Matchdays in 2025/26 Season.

NPFL referees unpaid allowances

Match officials in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) are voicing frustration over unpaid indemnities for around 11 matchdays in the ongoing 2025/26 season, as the league remains on mid-season break.

Payments to referees, assessors, and match commissioners reportedly halted after matchday eight, affecting about 200 individuals involved in league operations.

Anonymous officials revealed basic matchday allowances range from ₦60,000 to ₦90,000, excluding hotel and transport reimbursements.

One official stated: “This is not just about referees. Match commissioners and assessors are also owed… There was no explanation or anything. We just manage to survive because our profession allows us to do other vocations.”

Since 2023, GTI Asset Management has handled these payments following a 30% indemnity increase and boosted prize money – with league champions now earning ₦200 million.

GTI’s Head of Media and Publicity, Andrew Ekejiuba, responded: “I’m aware there are some outstanding payments and, as I speak, those payments are being cleared. Many of the match officials are receiving payments now, and I can assure you that before the commencement of the second half of the season, all outstanding payments will be cleared.”

As of reporting, no officials had confirmed receipt, with one noting verification through association rebates.

Meanwhile, Rivers United lead the table with 37 points from 19 matches, chasing another title.

This issue highlights ongoing financial challenges in Nigerian domestic football, despite recent reforms.