The Nationwide League One (NLO) Secretariat has issued a directive enforcing strict restrictions on the composition and conduct of team personnel on the technical bench during matches.
In a circular dated May 11, 2025, addressed to all State Football Associations and NLO Club Chairmen, the Secretariat expressed concern over repeated violations of global football standards by clubs, particularly the presence of non-technical officials on the bench.
According to the circular signed by Olushola Ogunnowo, Chief Operating Officer of the NLO, only 16 accredited individuals — nine players and seven officials — are permitted on the reserve bench during matches, as stated in Article 4.09 of the NLO rulebook.
The statement also mandates that all individuals on the bench must be corporately dressed in acceptable sports attire such as tracksuits or suits, and not in traditional or flowing native wear.
Furthermore, clubs must ensure that the technical area conforms to FIFA regulations. Any violation of these provisions will attract a fine of ₦30,000.
The NLO emphasized that these measures are necessary to maintain order and prevent disruptions, noting past incidents where non-technical individuals were identified as sources of misconduct and potential violence.
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