Could the Nigeria Premier League be on the verge of a technological leap? Maybe not, even as fans have long dreamt of a future where Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will be made available to ensure fairer play in the league.

The NPFL Board Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, has just given us a candid update on this ambitious journey.

NPFL’s VAR vision: A clear path ahead?

While the desire to bring Video Assistant Referee to the nation’s top flight is strong, a significant hurdle remains: securing the necessary funding for this advanced technology.

Chairman Elegbeleye paints a clear picture of the league’s commitment to modernising football.

“The next level now is that we want to advance to the level of having a VAR here,” he emphasised.

Footballrover understands that this isn’t just talk; concrete steps have already been taken.

The NPFL, as a league body, has held online meetings with the very manufacturers of the VAR technology.

Elegbeleye disclosed that the Nigeria Football Federation has also shortlisted ten computer-literate referees, sending them to Morocco for specialised training.

These officials are learning the intricate use of communication gadgets to guide decisions efficiently.

“You can communicate with those behind the machine, and they will guide your decision,” Elegbeleye explained, highlighting the precision VAR demands.

The stage is set, preparations are underway, but one critical element is still elusive.

Unlocking VAR in Nigeria: The sponsorship quest

Despite the proactive measures, the financial aspect of this refereeing aid remains a major challenge.

Elegbeleye was direct, stating,

“The stage we are at now is that we are looking for sponsors to be able to acquire the VAR machine.”

He openly admitted the high cost involved, not just in purchasing the equipment but also in the ongoing training required for personnel.

“We are ready to go the VAR way, but the machines are quite expensive, so if you have it, you have to train those that will handle it,” he reiterated.

The dream of a technologically advanced football league is alive and well, backed by training and technical discussions.

However, the wait continues for the “missing piece“—the crucial financial backing that will finally bring this game-changing technology to Nigerian football.

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Last Updated on June 17, 2025 2:42 pm by Sir Kris