Beyond Limits lose NPFL slot over joint ownership with Remo Stars

The Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) has announced that Beyond Limits Football Academy will not be registered for the 2024/25 season. 

In a statement on its website on Tuesday, the league body said the decision is “due to concerns regarding dual interest” from the club’s owner.

Beyond Limits is the academy of Remo Stars FC, and both are owned by Kunle Soname.

While Remo Stars have been a mainstay in the NPFL for years now, Beyond Limits gained promotion from the Nigeria National League (NNL) at the end of last season after finishing top of the southern conference playoff group with seven points.

The academy side lifted the NNL league title by defeating Nasarawa United 4-3 on penalties after both sides played out a 2-2 in regulation time.

The development raised questions over Beyond Limits’ potential participation in the new NPFL season, a situation the NPFL has now clarified.

NPFL said the presence of both Remo Stars and Beyond Limits sharing the same ownership in the top flight league is “a breach of Rule B11.4 of the NPFL Framework and Rules”.

The league body added that Beyond Limits will be replaced by Hearland FC for the season.

“This decision aligns with Rule A5.2, which stipulates the criteria for club participation. Heartland FC met the requirements set by the NPFL board and was the only relegated club to express interest in filling the vacancy,” the statement reads.

“We also need to clarify that there was no slot buying transaction, as such practices are explicitly prohibited under NPFL rules. The NPFL remains committed to upholding a fair and competitive league.”

The decision means Heartland will host the Oriental derby against Enyimba in the opening fixture of the new season. The visitors defeated the Naze Millionaires 1-0 in their last meeting in Aba.