A total of 44 players have been ruled out of the 2025 Nationwide League One (NLO) season following routine medical evaluations conducted by certified doctors across participating teams.
In a statement released by the league’s media department, the NLO emphasized the importance of periodic health checks to prevent life-threatening incidents, particularly sudden cardiac events.
The players, drawn from 31 different clubs, were found medically unfit after undergoing detailed examinations aimed at assessing their overall fitness and underlying health conditions.
Offa Football Club recorded the highest number of affected players, with six athletes disqualified following tests conducted by Dr. Ayo Olajide, a medical consultant for the league. Camp Pro FC of Abuja also had four players ruled out due to health concerns.
NLO’s Chief Operating Officer, Olushola Ogunnowo, stressed the league’s commitment to player welfare:
“Medical screening is a standard procedure before every NLO season. This year, 44 players were found unfit to participate due to health-related conditions such as systemic hypertension. They and their clubs have been officially informed. This decision is ultimately about protecting their lives.”
Ogunnowo added that with over 300 teams spread across Division One and the U19 category, regular medical checks are critical to safeguarding grassroots football in Nigeria.
