Kano Pillars, Niger Tornadoes, Katsina Win Valuable Points After Illegal Use of Players in EuroMatch NPFL Matchday One
Kano Pillars, Niger Tornadoes and Katsina United have come under intense scrutiny after fielding newly registered players on Matchday One of the EuroMatch NPFL despite an existing NFF directive prohibiting non-compliant clubs from registering or transferring players.
The controversy follows the opening round of the 2026/27 Euro Match NPFL season and has reignited concerns over the enforcement of decisions issued by the Nigeria Football Federation’s Players’ Status and Arbitration Committee (PSAC).
In April 2026, the PSAC formally directed the NPFL and the NFF Club Licensing Department to prevent clubs that had failed to comply with arbitration rulings from registering new players, including promotions from feeder teams, until all outstanding contractual obligations to former players and coaches were settled.
Despite that directive, official Matchday One team sheets showed all three clubs fielding several players registered as new arrivals.
Kano Pillars started Fabian Nworie Maduabuchi, Ubong Friday and Abdulraheem Shola against Kwara United, while Zayyad Musa appeared among the substitutes. Shola scored as Pillars earned a 2-2 draw.
Katsina United named six newly recruited players in their starting XI against Rangers, including Francis Koroma, Emmanuel Bakare, Ubong Essien, Michael Ibe, Barnabas Daniel and Dadong Lewis. Eric Oguocha was also listed on the bench as the match ended 1-1.
Niger Tornadoes fielded Derrick Julu, Akaje Hanafi, Abdulazeez Yusuf, John Zakka and Badejo Oluwaseun from the start against Enyimba, with five more new signings among the substitutes before claiming a victory.
A test of regulatory credibility
The issue extends beyond player selection.
The fundamental question is how these players were registered, licensed and cleared for competitive matches if the PSAC directive remained in force.
The NFF’s instruction was not advisory; it specifically ordered the suspension of registration and transfer privileges for defaulting clubs pending compliance with its rulings.
With valuable points already earned by the three clubs, attention now shifts to the NPFL and the NFF for clarification.
Whether the results stand or disciplinary measures follow will be a significant test of the league’s commitment to regulatory integrity.
A Credibility Test For NPFL
The credibility of the NPFL depends not only on performances on the pitch but also on the consistent enforcement of the rules that govern player eligibility and club compliance.
Will the league pass this litmus test ?
Time will tell as all eyes now on Dr Ayo Abdul Rahman, the newly appointed NPFL boss after the mass exit resignation of the Gusau led NFF board as Nigerians ask for all round reforms in our football.
