NNL signs ₦494m sponsorship deal, players, officials to earn ₦56,000 for every win
Sports betting and gaming company, betPawa, has signed a sponsorship deal worth over ₦494 million with the Nigeria National League (NNL). The agreement introduces a new system that directly rewards players for victories.
The initiative, called the Locker Room Bonus, will see every player on a winning team receive ₦56,000 directly into their mobile money wallets within minutes of the final whistle. In addition, the NNL will earn ₦400,000 for every match played each weekend.
A further ₦81 million has also been set aside for end-of-season awards to reward the best teams and outstanding players.
Borah Omary Ndanyungu, betPawa’s Head of Local Marketing & CSR, said the deal is about building a system that gives Nigerian footballers the respect they deserve.
“We’re not just handing out cash. This platform rewards players for every hard-fought victory – no delays, no drama,” he said.
NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, welcomed the partnership, saying it will help keep talented players in the domestic league.
“One of my major concerns has been how to keep our best players in the league. This is the way forward and it will reflect positively on the growth of the game in Nigeria,” Gusau said.
NNL Chairman, George Aluo, also praised the agreement and commended the NFF for prioritising grassroots football. He highlighted the steady progress of NNL clubs, many of which have gained promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League in recent years.
Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Philip Shaibu, described the deal as a morale booster.
“This partnership will motivate players to give their best and will have a ripple effect on the league and Nigerian football as a whole,” he said.
BetPawa said the project is part of its commitment to professionalising sports across Africa through innovative sponsorship models and corporate social responsibility. The company added that its long-term vision is to support sustainable football growth by ensuring players and clubs benefit directly from commercial partnerships.
