NPFL to sanction coaches who boycott post-match media interviews

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), on Thursday, announced that it will begin imposing fines on coaches who fail to honour post-match media engagements.

This directive comes as part of the league’s broader effort to promote transparency, enhance media coverage, and strengthen engagement with fans through consistent content delivery.

In a statement, the NPFL Chairman, Gbenga Elegbeleye, tasked with the responsibility of enforcing compliance with post-match procedures, which include mandatory interviews with journalists.

Elegbeleye said: “It is now compulsory for Match Commissioners to ensure that coaches and players appear for post-match interviews with the media. This is not optional. It is a key part of our matchday obligations.

“We expect comprehensive reports from our Match Commissioners, indicating whether coaches compiled or not. Any coach found defaulting will face immediate sanctions. A coach who fails to attend a post-match interview will be fined, and the fine must be settled before the team’s next game. Failure to do so will result in the coach being barred from taking a position on the bench.”

The directive mandates Match Commissioners to document any instance of non-compliance in their official reports. Clubs and coaches who fail to participate in these post-match media sessions will be flagged and recommended for disciplinary action.

This move follows growing complaints from NPFL media partners, who have expressed frustration over repeated instances where coaches shun their media obligations, particularly after defeats, thereby depriving fans and broadcasters of valuable post-match insights.

According to Elegbeleye, such behavior is not only unprofessional but also undermines the league’s efforts to boost visibility and fan engagement. “We are at a critical point in the development of our league.

“The NPFL is committed to growing the league’s profile and delivering value to all stakeholders, especially our media partners who play a pivotal role in showcasing the matches and providing narratives that help connect fans to the game.”

He added that content generated from post-match interviews is vital in shaping stories, building anticipation for future fixtures, and drawing fans closer to the personalities involved in the game.

He said: “Whether through television, radio, social media, or print, our fans rely on the insights from coaches and players to understand team strategies, performance decisions, and the emotions behind each result.”

The NPFL Chairman acknowledged that some coaches have developed the habit of walking away from media engagements in frustration, especially after losses.

However, he emphasised that while emotions are part of the game, professionalism must remain the standard. The introduction of fines, he explained, is aimed at discouraging such unsporting conduct and reinforcing the importance of accountability.