Relief sweeps through Sunshine Stars and Heartland after securing temporary clearance for player registration, while Akwa United and Gombe remain blocked this season.
The Nigeria National League (NNL) transfer clearance process has taken a decisive turn as the new campaign begins, with contrasting outcomes for clubs navigating the NFF Players’ Status and Arbitration Committee (PSAC) decisions.
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Sunshine Stars and Heartland FC have earned provisional approval to register new players after meeting key settlement requirements, but Akwa United and Gombe United still face stiff restrictions.
Akwa United ran into a last minute negotiations with the affected players before their first match of the season but talks broke down between the parties after the players rejected the proposed settlement plan
Akwa United failed to convince the players on their readiness to comply with payment obligations.
The club reportedly proposed to clear the arrears in two tranches without committing to definite dates, hence their newly signed players cannot be registered or fielded.
Gombe United’s case presents a similar setback.
Despite owing a relatively small amount—slightly above ₦300,000—the club made no substantive move to settle the debt or present a repayment proposal.
Their lack of commitment has left them firmly under the transfer embargo, complicating their season preparations.
Conversely, Sunshine Stars earned temporary clearance after the club made payments and submitted a guaranteed repayment plan endorsed by the affected players.
The arrangement satisfied the PSAC’s requirements, though the club must complete the agreed payments within the stipulated timeline to avoid further sanctions.
Heartland FC also secured approval after making part payment and entering a binding settlement agreement with their owed players.
Their compliance ensured the committee lifted their restriction, allowing the Owerri-based club to proceed with registering new signings for the season.
A reliable NNL source confirmed that only Akwa United and Gombe United remain under the ban.
“The affected clubs must settle their financial obligations in line with PSAC rulings. Without full compliance, clearance will not be granted,” the official stated.
Meanwhile, Lobi Stars successfully exited the transfer-ban list earlier in the week after clearing all outstanding debts. With full approval restored, they now shift focus entirely to their push for promotion to the NPFL.
