NFF Overturns NNL Decision, Awards Points To Jigawa Golden Stars FC

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Disciplinary Committee has overturned a previous decision by the Nigeria National League (NNL), awarding three points and three goals to Jigawa Golden Stars FC. The ruling, made on 30th March 2026, follows a protest lodged by Jigawa Golden Stars FC regarding the use of an ineligible player by Yobe Desert Stars FC.

The NFF Committee found that Shedrack John, wearing jersey number 2 for Yobe Desert Stars FC, had accumulated three yellow cards prior to the match against Jigawa Golden Stars FC. This included one yellow card while playing for Ranchers Bees FC and two while representing Yobe Desert Stars FC.

Danlami Alanana, the Chief Operating Officer of the NNL, admitted to the NFF Disciplinary Committee that a thorough investigation was not conducted before their initial decision. He further stated that it was only after their ruling that they discovered John’s ineligibility and requested the NFF Committee to take appropriate action.

Consequently, the NFF Disciplinary Committee concluded that Yobe Desert Stars FC had indeed fielded an ineligible player. The committee set aside the NNL’s original decision and awarded Jigawa Golden Stars FC the three points and three goals. This decision is subject to appeal.