Dolphins FC has been granted approval to change their name to Rivers United FC by the League Management Company (LMC) with a proviso that they comply with relevant rules dealing with specific sections of the Framework and Rules for change of name.
The approval was granted pursuant to an application for change of name endorsed by the Rivers State Government, owners of the club through the office of the Commissioner for Sports.
The approval was conveyed in a letter by the LMC which read, “Pursuant to the provisions of article A5.4 of the Framework and Rules of the Nigeria Professional Football League, having duly considered your application for permission to change the name of the Football Club from “Dolphins Football Club” to “Rivers United Football Club”, we are pleased to convey to you the approval of the League Management Company”.
The letter further stated that the approval was in line with the provisions of article A5.4.3 and A5.4.4, stating that the approval was granted on the basis that the proposed name change is not offensive or prejudicial to national unity, community identity, fans or supporters’ followership, other objectives and commercial interests of the League as a marketing brand and football competition.
Dolphins were directed to in line with the change notify the LMC when the change of name is effected in line with the national company legislation for the implementation of the necessary changes in the LMC records and publications.
It also required Dolphins to comply with requirements with the Personnel and Administrative Criteria of the Club Licensing Regulations as well as the League Rules to submit the club management structure by submitting the CVs, employment contract/appointment letter, copies of relevant certificates of all personnel.
