World football governing body, FIFA, has placed a ban on Katsina United of the Nigeria Premier Football League along with twenty-two other African clubs, preventing them from registering new players.

According to FIFA’s website, Katsina United’s ban began on June 12, 2024, and will last for three registration periods.

The sanction results from recent contractual violations involving the club and several players.

The other banned clubs include:

• DC Motema Pembe
• TP Mazembe
• Future FC
• Al Masry
• Zamalek SC
• Horoya AC
• Raja Club Athletic
• Wydad Athletic Club
• African Stars FC
• Kiyovu Sports Association
• Royal AM
• TS Galaxy FC
• Singida Big Stars FC
• Tabora United
• Club Africain
• CS Sfaxien
• Etoile du Sahel
• US Monastir
• Mbarara City FC
• Buildcon FC
• Indeni FC
• Lusaka Dynamos FC

The ban has caused significant turmoil within Katsina United, leading to an exodus of key players seeking opportunities with other clubs. Some players, whose contracts were terminated verbally, are now unwilling to return.

One affected player spoke to a Daily Trust reporter under the condition of anonymity, describing his bewilderment over the situation.

“The team manager called to inform me that my services were no longer needed, so I shouldn’t return to the club,” he said. “I still have one year of my contract left, so I was confused. But he said they will pay me three months for me to go and find another club.”

He continued, “He also said if that is not acceptable to me, I should resume, but I won’t be part of the team, although they will pay my monthly salary. That got me even more confused.”

The player was later informed by his lawyer that the club had reversed its decision and requested his return.

“Well, my position is that my contract is already terminated by Katsina United, so they will pay me off so that I can go elsewhere to continue with my career,” he concluded.

The ban on Katsina United and the other clubs highlights the serious contractual and administrative issues within some African football clubs.

As these clubs navigate the repercussions of FIFA’s sanctions, their ability to maintain competitive squads and ensure the well-being of their players remains uncertain.

This situation underscores the need for better governance and adherence to contractual obligations in African football.

Nigeria has made a significant jump in the latest FIFA Ranking, now sitting ahead of AFCON champions Cote d’Ivoire and Erling Haaland’s Norway.

After their impressive showing at the AFCON 2023 tournament, Nigeria’s Super Eagles have climbed 14 places in the FIFA World Ranking. They are now ranked 28th in the world and the third-best team in Africa.

Despite their heartbreaking 2-1 loss to host nation Cote d’Ivoire in the final, Nigeria’s performance earned them plenty of praise. Led by coach Jose Peseiro, the young Nigerian side impressed throughout the tournament, narrowly missing out on a fourth AFCON title.

This move from 42nd to 28th is the highest climb for the Super Eagles in 11 years, matching their position in May 2013. They now sit behind Morocco, who moved up one spot to 12th, and Senegal, who are ranked 17th after moving up three places.