NPFL Faces Major Setback as StarTimes Terminates N1 Billion Broadcast Deal

Written on 28/10/2024
Premium Times

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has encountered a significant hurdle following the termination of its five-year broadcast deal with StarTimes, valued at over N1 billion.

The agreement, signed in November 2023, was expected to boost the league's visibility and revenue through live coverage. However, the sudden termination just months after signing has raised concerns about the impact on the league's growth and media reach.

The NPFL now faces the challenge of finding a new broadcast partner to ensure continued coverage for its fans.



NPFL Board Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye declined to comment on the development when contacted by PREMIUM TIMES, stating, “I don’t grant interviews over the phone to people I don’t know.”

However, two StarTimes insiders confirmed the decision with one of them saying, “Yes, it is true (we’ve canceled the deal). I just spoke to the boss.”

The NPFL-StarTimes deal aimed to promote the Nigerian league and increase its visibility.

When it was brokered, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Gusau expressed optimism that the partnership would drive interest in domestic football, rivaling foreign leagues like the English Premier League.

“We thank God for making this day a reality. It has been our dream and earnest desire to do everything it takes to improve our domestic league.

“Indeed, we cannot say we have achieved that without putting the Premier League first.