National Association of Nigerian Professional Footballers (NANPF) and D&B Sports Management have signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement to commercialize and transform Nigerian Players’ Welfare
Abuja, Nigeria, July 11, 2025. In a landmark move aimed at empowering Nigerian footballers and transforming the country’s player welfare system, the National Association of Nigerian Professional Footballers (NANPF) has entered into a strategic partnership with D&B Sports Management, led by international sports consultant Benedict Eni.
The agreement, officially signed this week, marks a significant turning point for the Union as it looks to modernize its operations, introduce commercial frameworks, and implement international best practices in player representation, welfare, and financial accountability.
“This is not just a partnership, it’s a strategic alignment for the future of Nigerian footballers,” said Benedict Eni, CEO of D&B Sports Management. “We are proud to be working with the Union to build a transparent, digitally driven ecosystem that prioritizes players’ rights and unlocks commercial value.”
Under the agreement, the parties have jointly established a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to serve as the exclusive platform for managing all sponsorship, endorsements, welfare contributions, and other financial incentives for Union members.
D&B Sports Management will serve as the Union’s lead advisor on commercialization, legal structuring, branding, and strategic growth.
Key components of the partnership include:
Legal incorporation and governance of the Union and SPV
Development of a digital player identity system and centralized membership database
Introduction of union-wide insurance and welfare schemes
Recruitment of national and international sponsors
Enhanced media visibility and global scouting opportunities for players
The Union has also appointed Benedict Eni as its Special Advisor to the Executive Committee, with the mandate to chair a newly formed Commercial Development Subcommittee.
“This partnership reflects our deep commitment to protecting and promoting Nigerian footballers,” said Sunday Abe, Chairman of the Players’ Board of the National Association of Nigerian Professional Footballers (NANPF).
“Together with D&B Sports Management, we are laying the foundation for a new era of professionalism, accountability, and opportunity for our members,” added Austin Popo, Executive Secretary.
The partnership takes immediate effect, with implementation already underway.
