League chairman says negotiations are in final stages as NPFL plans digital expansion, celebrity partnerships and sustained August-to-May calendar.

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) is on the verge of securing a new title sponsor ahead of the 2026/27 season, with Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye confirming that negotiations have reached the final stage and an official announcement is expected before the league’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on August 7.

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Naija News reports that Elegbeleye disclosed this while speaking to journalists at the Maldron Hotel in Glasgow, Scotland, where he said he had travelled to conclude discussions with the prospective sponsor and finalise the commercial agreement.

According to the NPFL chairman, the proposed partnership extends beyond financial support and will play a significant role in strengthening the league’s digital footprint through enhanced social media engagement and strategic content creation.

“We are finalising the details. I have travelled abroad to conclude discussions and ensure everything is properly put in place. Beyond becoming our title sponsor, this partnership will also strengthen our digital presence as we work to grow the league’s social media platforms through influencers and strategic content creation,” Elegbeleye said.

Reports indicate that the proposed sponsorship package is valued at more than $7.5 million over three years, making it one of the biggest commercial agreements ever secured by the NPFL if successfully concluded.

NPFL Targets Fans With Celebrity Partnerships

As part of broader efforts to increase the league’s popularity, Elegbeleye revealed that the NPFL is preparing to launch a major fan engagement campaign involving some of Nigeria’s leading entertainers.

He disclosed that discussions with top entertainers had already taken place and agreements were expected to be signed in the coming days.

“I have spoken with a couple of top entertainers, and we are expected to sign agreements with them in the coming days. They have agreed to support this initiative for the development of Nigerian football and have even indicated they would attend more than one league match.”

According to him, the involvement of celebrities, combined with the new title sponsor and expanded digital campaign, will significantly boost the league’s visibility, attract new audiences and strengthen supporters’ connection with Nigerian domestic football.

Dedicated Social Media Department Planned

Elegbeleye also announced plans to establish a dedicated NPFL social media department comprising experienced sports journalists, digital content creators and young media professionals.

He explained that the initiative is designed to improve the league’s online presence by delivering regular, engaging and high-quality content across multiple digital platforms.

“We are setting up a social media department that will bring together journalists who have remained committed to the league and young, creative media professionals. Our goal is to consistently tell the NPFL story and connect with fans across digital platforms,” he said.

League To Maintain August-May Calendar

The NPFL chairman reaffirmed the league’s commitment to maintaining its August-to-May football calendar, describing it as a reflection of the growing professionalism of Nigeria’s top-flight competition and its alignment with global football standards.

He also urged clubs to complete all club licensing requirements before the commencement of the new season to avoid delays and ensure a seamless kickoff.

“We are determined to sustain the culture of starting the league on schedule. It reflects our seriousness and aligns with global football standards. We also want all clubs to complete their club licensing requirements before the season begins because we do not want any team left behind,” Elegbeleye stated.

The anticipated sponsorship announcement is expected to be one of the major highlights of the NPFL Annual General Meeting, as the league intensifies preparations for the start of the 2026/27 campaign with renewed focus on commercial growth, digital innovation and improved fan engagement.