The Interim Management Committee (IMC) has shifted the kickoff date of the league from December 28 to January 8 after a marathon meeting with the 20 Nigeria Professional Football Club in Abuja.
IMC Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye said that the draw for the new season will hold on December 28 while the new season will kick off in January 8 next year.
He disclosed that the postponement was at the instant of the club managers who said the December date was not realistic in face of the paucity of funds being experienced by most of the clubs and coupled with the celebrations.
When asked if the IMC will give the clubs financial support to kick start the league, he replied that the IMC will definitely give the clubs some money but did not give the exact figure.
“We had a meeting with football league stakeholders on the way forward for the Nigeria league.
“We will definitely give the clubs start -up support. The amount will be determined by our sponsors.
He explained that all the reports that the clubs will get around N200m were mere speculations adding that the clubs will definitely get a takeoff grant.
Elegbeleye wondered if the clubs who are agitating for takeoff grants have been getting such in the last six years.
He assured that the sponsors will determine what each club will get for the new season and that will be unfolded at the draws.
Blueprint correspondent gathered that the IMC is sticking with the abridged league which most of the clubs are not comfortable and playing in television friendly arena with each club getting N10m as take –off grant.
