NPFL Imposes N1m Fine on Clubs for Ball Boy Delay Tactics, Pillars’ Auwalu Back, Kun Khalifat Battles for Survival

Clubs whose ball boys use time-wasting techniques during games have come under heavy fire from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), which has fined any team found guilty a million naira.

Davidson Owumi, the league’s chief operating officer, revealed this in a circular sent to all participating clubs, emphasizing that the act violates fair play principles and damages the league’s reputation.

“Any team found to be lacking and supporting this will be fined one million naira because such behavior is against fair play and brings the game to disrepute,” the statement said.

According to the NPFL’s regulations, Owumi called the act misconduct and issued a warning that the league would maintain its professionalism and integrity throughout the season.

Another development is the return of Auwalu Ali Malam, a midfielder for the Kano Pillars, to training after missing time due to injury since the 2025–2026 NPFL season began.

Following his previous appearance in Pillars’ matchday two matchup against Wikki Tourists, the 24-year-old resumed light training with his teammates on Thursday.

“Recovery Process: Auwalu Ali Malam, also known as ka ci kowa, is back and is training lightly with the rest of the team,” the club posted.

The Sai Masu Gida will benefit from his return as they prepare to play Barau FC at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano this weekend.

In the meantime, Kun Khalifat FC has pledged to maintain their top-flight standing in spite of a difficult season debut.

Last week, the Owerri-based team defeated nine-time champions Enyimba in a thrilling match, but they insist they are not getting too excited about the outcome.

“We won’t feel at ease for very long! We don’t believe we’ve made it. The club wrote on 𝕏 that it’s not yet UHURU.

“We approach every game as the finals in the hopes of finishing the season the way we had planned. Our commitment to our beloved fans and IMOLITES remains intact. We shall continue to fight till NPFL2026 is over.

Kun Khalifat, who have eight points from eight games thus far, will go to Yenagoa on Sunday to play Bayelsa United in a matchday nine match at Samson Siasia Stadium.