NNL Sets Record Straight: No Kick-Off Until Due Process is Complete

The Nigeria National League (NNL) has refuted claims that the 2024/2025 season will commence in October. The league’s Chief Operating Officer, Emmanuel Attah, clarified that there are established procedures that must be followed before setting a start date for the new season.

Attah emphasized that the NNL must hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM), where an appraisal of the previous season will take place. This meeting is essential for evaluating the past season’s performance and obtaining the necessary approvals for the upcoming season.

“There are formal procedures that need to be completed before we can announce the start date for a new season,” Attah stated. “The Annual General Meeting is crucial as it allows us to assess the previous season and secure the necessary approvals for the forthcoming season.”

Detailed Explanation of the NNL’s Process

1. **Annual General Meeting (AGM)**: The AGM is a vital component of the NNL’s preparations for a new season. During this meeting, representatives from all participating clubs, league officials, and other stakeholders gather to review the previous season. This appraisal includes analyzing the performance of teams, the effectiveness of league operations, and any challenges encountered.

2. **Season Appraisal**: The appraisal process involves a thorough evaluation of various aspects of the league, including match officiating, club compliance with regulations, fan engagement, and financial management. This comprehensive review ensures that any issues from the past season are addressed and improvements are planned for the new season.

3. **Approval Process**: Following the appraisal, the AGM will seek approvals from relevant bodies for the new season. This includes confirming the league’s budget, scheduling, and any regulatory changes. Only after obtaining these approvals can an official announcement be made regarding the start date of the new season.

4. **Communication**: Once the AGM concludes and all necessary approvals are secured, the NNL will communicate the official start date to the public, ensuring transparency and clarity.

### Conclusion

The NNL’s clarification highlights the importance of following due process before announcing the commencement of a new season. By ensuring that all necessary evaluations and approvals are completed during the AGM, the league aims to maintain high standards and address any issues from the previous season. This careful preparation underscores the NNL’s commitment to providing a well-organized and competitive football league for Nigeria.

Emmanuel Attah’s statement serves as a reminder that the announcement of the new season’s start date will only be made after these critical steps are completed, ensuring a smooth and successful kick-off for the 2024/2025 season.