Daily Independent (Lagos)
10 March 2011
The Nigeria Premier League (NPL) has commended the Sports Minister/Chairman National Sports Commission (NSC), Prof.Taoheed Adedoja, the NSC Director General, Chief Patrick Ekeji, and other partners, for their roles in the successful completion of the first phase of the league that ends March 13, 2011.
A total of 190 matches were played without a Title Sponsor.
NPL said in a statement on Thursday that in the absence of a Title Sponsor, the league would have grounded to a halt if not for the intervention of the Sports Minister and the NSC director general.
It noted in the statement that the moral and financial support Adedoja and Ekeji made it possible for it to honour indemnities of match officials, hotel bills and other logistics that have been settled.
“In this regard, the NPL wishes to appreciate this wonderful gesture which no doubt played a vital role in the successful completion of this stanza,” it said, adding, “Although, the NPL is optimistic that the issue of Title Sponsorship would be settled before the commencement of the second round to ensure a smooth take off and avoid a standstill, NPL appreciate the continuous support and understanding of all admirers of the league.
It added that, “as the League proceeds on a two weeks break, NPL also appreciates the management, coaches and players of all clubs for the high level of discipline displayed during matches as evidenced by the hitch free matches and non filing of protests.
“The clubs are accordingly, empowered to display same level of discipline in the second stanza.
“Again, we appreciate and salute all stakeholders for their support and belief in the Nigeria Premier League,” it concluded.
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