As anticipation builds for the 2025 Nationwide League One (NLO) U19 Youth League, the league’s Secretariat has unveiled a bold move to decentralize its match venues, taking games closer to grassroots communities across Nigeria.
Speaking to the NLO Media Channel, Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Olushola Ogunnowo, highlighted the significance of this shift, stating that community involvement is central to the league’s mission of grassroots football development.
Read Also: Nigeria’s Track Titans Converge On Lagos For 2025 Outdoor Championships
“Grassroots teams are at the heart of football. Without them, many people’s passion for the sport wouldn’t exist,” Ogunnowo remarked. “These clubs also play a vital role in contributing to the local community and fostering connections among people from different backgrounds.”
The new initiative will see emerging towns such as Ileogbo in Osun State, Apele in Sagamu (Ogun State), Kazaure (Jigawa), Numan (Adamawa), and Kontagora (Niger State) among others serve as match centres for the upcoming U19 Youth League.
Traditionally staged in urban stadiums, the NLO is now inviting Local Government Areas (LGAs) and communities with standard football facilities to participate as host venues — a strategic pivot aimed at widening the league’s reach and promoting inclusivity.
Ogunnowo emphasized that State Football Associations are encouraged to nominate suitable stadiums that meet NLO requirements, with league officials set to conduct thorough inspections to ensure compliance and transparency.
“This initiative will significantly strengthen grassroots football development and allow communities to actively engage with and benefit from the growth of the sport,” Ogunnowo added.
The 2025 NLO U19 Youth League fixture release is expected in the coming days, with local fans and football stakeholders keenly awaiting the impact of this community-first approach.
