The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has announced a firm new policy aimed at clamping down on coaches who avoid speaking to the media after matches—a move designed to boost professionalism and deepen fan engagement across the league.
Under the new directive, any coach who fails to appear for post-match interviews will face immediate fines. The decision was confirmed by NPFL Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, who described the development as necessary to ensure the league operates with the highest standards of transparency and media responsibility.
“We are no longer treating this matter lightly,” Elegbeleye stated via the league’s Matchday Situation Room platform. “All coaches must fulfil their post-match media duties. It is no longer optional—it’s part of the league’s matchday obligations.”
Match Commissioners have now been instructed to strictly enforce this policy at all league venues. They are expected to document compliance in their reports, flagging any instance where a coach fails to honour the media protocol. According to the NPFL, defaulting coaches will not only be fined but must pay the penalty before their team’s next match. Failure to do so will see the coach barred from the dugout.
The tougher stance follows ongoing frustration among media partners, who have repeatedly raised concerns over coaches avoiding interviews—particularly after disappointing results—leaving fans without crucial post-match insights.
Elegbeleye criticised such behaviour, saying it undermines efforts to raise the league’s profile. “Our coaches must understand that the media plays a crucial role in telling the story of our league. Interviews help fans connect with teams and provide necessary context to the action on the pitch,” he said.
He acknowledged that emotions often run high after matches but insisted professionalism must take precedence. “We are not trying to be punitive. We’re simply asking coaches to respect their responsibilities and support our push for a stronger, more engaging league.”
The NPFL’s new enforcement policy sends a clear signal: coaches must show up, speak up, and play their part in the growth of Nigerian football.
