The Nigeria Basketball Federation has announced a major restructuring of the men’s Premier League, increasing the number of participating teams from 16 to 20 ahead of the 2026 season, alongside new player eligibility rules aimed at promoting local talent and ensuring competitive balance.
The new season is set to begin on May 9, with the league adopting a broader two-conference format and tighter squad regulations. Players will now be classified into three groups: home-based, diaspora, and foreign.
While there is no limit on home-based players, each club is allowed only one diaspora player—defined as a Nigerian living abroad with a valid passport—and up to two foreign players. Both diaspora and foreign signings must provide a valid FIBA international transfer certificate and complete required administrative payments before registration.
Teams will be restricted to a 15-man squad. A two-week transfer window will also open at the start of the playoffs, during which clubs can only fill vacant positions and are not permitted to replace already registered players. Additionally, the federation has fixed a protest fee of ₦500,000.
Under the new structure, the league will be divided into the Savannah and Atlantic Conferences, with 10 teams each. In the Savannah Conference, confirmed teams include Nigeria Customs, Nile University, Kano Pillars, Bauchi Nets, Plateau Peaks, Gboko City Chiefs, Gombe Bulls, Niger Potters, and 313 Warriors, with one slot yet to be filled.
The Atlantic Conference will feature defending champions Maktown Flyers alongside Rivers Hoopers, Comets, Hoops and Reads, Kwara Falcons, Athletes for Peace, Edo Beads, and Raptors, leaving two available spots.
The federation also confirmed changes to promotion and relegation. Correctional have exited the Savannah Conference, while Oluyole Warriors, Police Batons, and Delta Force have been relegated from the Atlantic Conference after missing the 2025 season.
Applications are now open for the remaining three slots, with interested clubs required to submit bids and pay a minimum fee of ₦5 million before the April 20 deadline. Player registration will close on April 30, the group stage will run from May 9 to May 19, playoffs are scheduled for July 2 to July 12, and the Final Four will be held from August 7 to August 14.