NPFL threatens to fine coaches who boycott post-match interviews

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Match Commissioners have been directed to ensure that all clubs and their coaches fully comply with post-match protocols, including mandatory interviews with journalists.

Chairman of the NPFL, Honourable Gbenga Elegbeleye, issued the directive via the Matchday Situation Room, where league operations officials interact with Match Commissioners in real time to ensure smooth matchday management.

“It is mandatory for Match Commissioners to ensure that coaches and players appear for post-match interviews with the media,” Elegbeleye stated.

Match Commissioners were further instructed to include in their reports any club or coach that refuses to honour post-match media duties.

“We expect reports of compliance or non-compliance from you, as any defaulting coach will be sanctioned.

“Any coach who fails to attend the post-match interview with the media will be fined, and such fines must be paid before the next game. Otherwise, the coach will not be allowed on the bench,” the NPFL Chairman warned.

He stressed the importance of full compliance with the NPFL Rules and Framework due to increasing complaints from media partners about being denied access to content.

“As the NPFL board, it is our duty to ensure that stakeholders, especially our media partners, are provided the platform to showcase the league through the content they generate from our games. This also helps bring the league closer to fans who consume this content on television, radio, social media, and in print,” Elegbeleye said.

Some coaches are known to leave the pitch in frustration after a loss, avoiding media duties. The monetary sanction is intended as a deterrent to curb such unsporting behaviour.