The Players’ Status and Arbitration Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation has ordered Heartland FC to pay the sum of ₦6.4 million to Coach Charles Uzor for unlawfully terminating his contract.
According to the Committee’s findings, Coach Charles Uzor entered into a valid professional coaching contract with Heartland FC on August 1, 2024, to serve as Head Coach for the 2024/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League season. The agreement entitled the coach to a monthly salary of ₦700,000.
However, the contract was terminated by the club on June 11, 2025. While Heartland FC alleged that the termination arose from several breaches of contract, the Committee established that the club ended the agreement unilaterally and without just cause. It further noted that due process, including proper query and suspension procedures, was not followed before the termination.
Coach Uzor subsequently sought ₦8.4 million, representing the unexpired tenure of his contract. After reviewing the submissions of both parties, the Committee ruled that Heartland FC must pay ₦6.4 million as compensation to the coach within 45 days from receipt of the decision.
The Committee also issued a stern warning that failure to comply with the ruling will attract sanctions. Heartland FC will face a ban from transferring players and registering new ones until the full amount ordered is paid.
The decision underscores the NFF’s commitment to upholding contractual integrity and protecting the rights of professionals within the Nigerian football industry.
