NPFL Accuses Infinix Phone of Ambush Exploitation of Assets

 

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has issued a warning to companies and businesses to refrain from engaging with its match venues unless they are officially affiliated through approved contracts.

NPFL Chairman Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye made this statement following reports of unauthorized activities by mobile device manufacturer Infinix. He noted that last week, a memo was sent to all clubs urging them to regularize their marketing practices according to the league's Framework and Rules. This caution arose after images and videos emerged showing Infinix’s involvement in the Man-of-the-Match presentation, despite not being affiliated with the NPFL. Additionally, the company made an unauthorized award presentation during Match-day 3 between Plateau United and Niger Tornadoes.

“We may have no choice but to take legal action to safeguard our league assets from such unethical marketing,” warned Elegbeleye. He emphasized that the Man-of-the-Match award is a league asset reserved for brands with official relationships with the NPFL, and that sporadic presentations of inexpensive mobile devices undermine the league's integrity. Any club complicit in this unauthorized usage will face severe penalties.

Elegbeleye clarified that the league board does not prevent clubs from pursuing sponsorship opportunities but stressed that established procedures must be followed to maintain the value of the league's assets.