In the world of professional football, the drama usually happens between the goalposts. But for Osun Babes FC, the most expensive “tackle” of the season happened in the locker room—or rather, the lack of one properly stocked with the right kits.
The Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) recently handed down a staggering ₦2.5 million fine to the Osun-based side following a series of regulatory blunders that turned a highly anticipated match into a legal headache.
The trouble began on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at the Onikan Stadium (Mobolaji Johnson Arena) in Lagos. Osun Babes were set to face off against FC Robo Queens in a 2025/2026 Premiership fixture.
However, as the teams prepared for kickoff, a glaring problem emerged: a color clash. As the visiting team, the responsibility fell on Osun Babes to provide an alternative kit. To the shock of officials and fans alike, the “Omoluabi Queens” failed to produce a second-choice jersey that met league standards—specifically, kits with clearly displayed names and numbers.
The Breakdown of the Fine
The NWFL didn’t just slap a random figure on the club; the ₦2.5 million penalty is a calculated response to three specific regulatory breaches:
Violation Fine Amount League Article
Jersey Infraction ₦1,000,000 Articles 10.3 & 10.5
Failure to Fulfill Fixture ₦1,500,000 Article 14.7
Total Sanction ₦2,500,000 —
Beyond the financial hit, the club suffered the ultimate sporting embarrassment: a walkover was awarded to FC Robo Queens, and reports indicate a further three-point deduction for the club.
To the casual observer, ₦2.5 million for “wearing the wrong shirt” might seem harsh. However, NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi clarified that the move is about professional integrity.
“Our regulations are clear, and all clubs are expected to meet their obligations fully. These measures are necessary to protect the integrity and credibility of the NWFL.”
In a league striving for global recognition and sponsorship, details like “alternative kits” and “printed numbers” aren’t just suggestions—they are the hallmarks of a professional broadcast and a fair competition.
For Osun Babes, this serves as an expensive wake-up call regarding logistics and administrative oversight. In a sport where every kobo counts toward player welfare and training, losing ₦2.5 million over a suitcase of jerseys is a bitter pill to swallow.
As the season continues, other clubs will undoubtedly be double-checking their equipment bags. In the NWFL, it seems the “fashion police” have real teeth—and they aren’t afraid to use them.
