Nagaland Super League set to launch with eight franchise teams

DIMAPUR — Nagaland Super League (NSL), a professional football league, is set to have its inaugural season this year.

The league follows the announcement made by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio during the inauguration of the 23rd Dr. T Ao Inter-District Championships Trophy in Tuensang regarding the establishment of a professional football league in the state.

According to an update, the governing body of the league, chaired by Neibu Sekhose, president of the Nagaland Football Association (NFA) and executive member of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), held a meeting on Thursday to discuss the framework and launch of the NSL.

During the meeting, Sekhose expressed gratitude to the chief minister and the government of Nagaland for their continued support in bringing this vision to life.

Key decisions made during the occasion included the official naming of the league as the Nagaland Super League and the inaugural season, which is set to start in 2024. The first edition of the NSL will feature eight franchise teams.

The governing body will soon call for letters of interest and release advertisements inviting potential franchise owners to participate. The criteria for franchise ownership will be clearly outlined and released for public consumption.

It also formed several committees to oversee the smooth operation of the league, ensuring that all logistical, technical and promotional aspects are managed efficiently.

With nine members present at the general body meeting, it reaffirmed its commitment to promoting football excellence in the state.

The Nagaland Super League aims to create a competitive platform for local footballers, fostering growth in the sport while also drawing attention to the rich football culture within the state.

The Nagaland Football Association appealed to sports lovers, football enthusiasts and capable patrons to explore possibilities of owning franchises.

‘It will not only be an opportunity to own a sports brand but will become a journey where one can make contributions in the development of sports, the growth of club culture, and the creation of opportunities for our youth to excel and make Nagaland shine at the national and international level,’ it read.