Nigerian handball clubs face heavy sanctions under new transfer regulations covering both amateur and professional players. The measures include mandatory transfer fees, compulsory agents and potential points deductions.
The Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN) has introduced a mandatory fee of 250,000 naira for domestic player transfers and loans, effective November 1.
According to Realnews Magazine and Sports247 Nigeria, 100,000 naira will go to the federation in administrative fees, while the releasing club will receive 150,000 naira as compensation for player development.
The regulations cover men’s and women’s handball at both amateur and professional levels, including lower-division clubs and academies.
All transfers must involve licensed agents, with deals conducted without authorised representation declared invalid.
Clubs violating the regulations face severe consequences, including a three-point deduction, a ten-goal penalty, a fine of 500,000 naira and a ban from transfer activities for two transfer windows.
HFN president Jibril Saidu Ojih has defended the measures, citing concerns over irregular transfers, unlicensed agents and clubs receiving no compensation for developing players.
The federation argues that the changes will improve transparency, protect investment in player development and bring Nigerian handball closer to international transfer standards.