Nasarawa United begins plans to upgrade Lafia City Stadium ahead of NPFL 2025/26 season.
Club races to meet strict league standards as NPFL enforces stadium reforms for compliance.
Nasarawa United’s home ground, the Lafia City Stadium, is set for a comprehensive upgrade in preparation for the upcoming 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, as the club moves to meet new league standards.
The NPFL management recently issued a directive to all participating clubs to improve their stadium facilities to meet modern requirements. Failure to comply, the league warned, will result in defaulting clubs being barred from using their home venues and forced to play on neutral grounds.
This push for improved infrastructure is aimed at enhancing the overall matchday experience and aligning local football standards with international expectations. The new directives, according to reports, emphasize the need for a well-maintained playing surface, functional LED floodlights suitable for night games, and a reliable backup generator to ensure uninterrupted power supply during matches.
As one of the league’s longstanding teams, Nasarawa United is now taking steps to ensure its facilities are up to par before the season kicks off. The club has reportedly begun preliminary assessments to determine what upgrades are necessary at the Lafia City Stadium.
The NPFL’s insistence on better infrastructure is part of a broader reform to professionalize the league and make it more attractive to sponsors, fans, and broadcasters. Over the years, poor stadium conditions have been a lingering issue across the league, often drawing criticism from fans and stakeholders alike. These new regulations are seen as a turning point for the domestic game in Nigeria.
A top official close to Nasarawa United confirmed that plans are underway to begin the facelift, which may include resurfacing the pitch, installing modern lighting systems, and addressing other essential requirements outlined by the NPFL. The move is expected to not only secure the team’s eligibility to host home matches but also boost the morale of players and supporters alike.
With the new NPFL season scheduled to kick off on Friday, August 22, time is of the essence. Clubs are racing against the clock to ensure compliance with the new stadium standards. The NPFL leadership has made it clear that no exemptions will be granted, and all clubs must meet the set criteria if they wish to retain their home advantage.
The push for facility upgrades also aligns with efforts to increase the league’s visibility and revenue. With more matches being broadcast live and higher engagement on digital platforms, the demand for professional and visually appealing venues has become more urgent.
Fans of Nasarawa United have welcomed the news of the upcoming improvements at Lafia City Stadium. Many believe it’s a step in the right direction for a team that has seen mixed fortunes in recent years. A better stadium experience, they argue, could help attract more fans to games and create a stronger home atmosphere that benefits the players on the pitch.
While the financial demands of the renovation may pose a challenge for some clubs, especially those without strong private backing or state support, the NPFL’s strict stance on compliance is expected to drive meaningful change across the board.
As preparations for the new season intensify, all eyes will be on how well clubs like Nasarawa United can rise to the occasion. For the Lafia-based side, upgrading their stadium is not just about meeting league rules, it’s also a chance to reignite local support and set a standard for professionalism in the Nigerian domestic football scene.
