KUN KHALIFAT FC RETURNS TO NPFL AFTER TALKS WITH LEAGUE MANAGEMENT

By: Gyang Dakwo

Kun Khalifat FC has reversed its decision to withdraw from the Nigeria Premier Football League and has returned to the competition just one day after pulling out over what it described as unfair sanctions.

Earlier in the week, the NPFL punished the club with the forfeiture of three points and three goals, alongside a heavy financial penalty. The decision followed issues linked to the club’s failure to honour a fixture against El Kanemi FC in Maiduguri.

The Owerri-based side described the punishment as extreme and said it exposed deeper problems in how the league relates with its clubs.

“The punishment handed down to us – forfeiting 3 points and 3 goals, and a fine of N100m – is not only unacceptable but a clear indication that the league’s management is more interested in penalizing clubs than fostering growth and development,” the club said.

However, on Thursday, the club announced its reinstatement after what it called positive discussions with the League Management Board.

Chief Executive Officer Michael Amaefula in a statement, said he was pleased with the outcome and added that both parties had resolved their differences in the interest of the game.

Kun Khalifat FC will now resume its NPFL campaign with a home match against Shooting Stars of Ibadan on Sunday, February 8, at the Dan Anyiam Stadium.

The swift resolution highlights the importance of dialogue between clubs and league administrators, because open talks often help calm tensions and prevent deeper crises in the league.

The reversal may restore stability and competitive balance to the NPFL, and it also helps to avoid fixture disruptions that affect clubs, players, and fans.

It also signals a willingness by the league board to listen to club concerns, and this approach could help retain teams and protect the structure of the competition.

Fan interest and matchday turnout could benefit from the club’s return, because supporters are more likely to stay engaged when disputes are resolved quickly.

The episode underlines the fragile relationship between football authorities and club survival in Nigeria, and it shows why fair processes and clear communication remain vital for the league’s future.