NNL Awards: Gusau Promises Continued Prioritization of Grassroot Football

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Musa Gusau on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, pledged that his administration will continue to prioritise the development of football from the grassroots.

This was brought to the fore at the Nigeria National League(NNL) monthly awards ceremony held in Abuja, where Gusau also hammered on the importance of the event stating that they help in boosting and encouraging better discharge of duties from all actors in the industry.

NNL Chairman Aluo presenting an award to the NFF boss, with Elegbeleye (left), Adeboye (second from left) and Alanana (right) watching.

“One of my NFF’s key commitments is to invigorate grassroots football and the associated leagues, recognizing them as the foundation for the future of the sport in Nigeria. We are grateful that after two and a-half years, we are witnessing tangible progress. By the end of our tenure, we anticipate that Nigerians will observe further positive developments and enhancements within our domestic league,” Gusau said.

Gasau further emphaized the importance of aligning Nigeria’s football calendar with international standards.

“This season marks the first occasion that we have successfully aligned our calendar with global leagues, an achievement that many deemed unattainable. ” This alignment is not restricted to the top-tier league but also encompasses the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL).

The NNL Awards ceremony lauds exemplary performances and accomplishments within the Nigeria National League, shining a spotlight on the adroit nature of athletes, coaches and teams nationwide.

Gusau and other dignitaries with all the award winners.

NNL Award Winners for April 2025:

1. Highest Goal Scorer: Gugut Chindi from Edel FC, who netted three goals in four matches, earning one Man of the Match (MOTM) award.

2. Best Goalkeeper: Efevwhera Joke of Warri Wolves FC, who impressively conceded no goal in three matches.

3. Best Coach: Napoleon Ahuma of Warri Wolves FC, who managed to secure two home victories and one away win, showcasing excellent conduct on the bench.

4. Best Behaved Team: Sokoto United FC, recognized for receiving only two cautions across three matches.

5. Most Valuable Player: Valentine Ugwu from Solution FC, who received MOTM honours twice in four matches (specifically on Match Days 12 & 14).

6. Goal of the Month: Shamasu Mohammed, was awarded for the standout goal in Match No. 32 on Match Day 11.

7. Best Referee: Daniel Amadu from the Kaduna Referee Council, noted for his firm decision-making in the match between Sokoto United and Wikki Tourist on Match Day 8, where he remained resolute against pressure from players and officials.

NNL Award Winners for May 2025:

1. Highest Goal Scorer: Yakubu Wonderson of Wikki Tourist, who scored four goals in three matches, including a notable hat-trick.

2. Best Goalkeeper: Bala Favour from Inter Lagos FC, who conceded only two goals over five matches.

3. Best Coach: Shakiru Favor Giwa of Inter Lagos FC, who led his team to two wins, one draw, and one loss while demonstrating commendable discipline in the technical area.

4. Best Behaved Team: Sokoto United FC, recognized for receiving only one caution in three matches.

5. Most Valuable Player: Gabriel Olalekan of Osun United FC, who earned MOTM recognition twice in three matches (specifically on Match Days 16 & 18).

6. Goal of the Month: Aniete Ukoh from Dakada FC, was awarded for the goal scored in Match No. 90 on Match Day 18.

7. Best Referee: Abubakar Zubairu from the Katsina Referee Council, was acknowledged for his decisiveness during a crucial match between Kada Warriors and Adamawa United on Match Day 14, effectively managing interactions between players and spectators.