The Nigeria Football Federation has expressed deep sadness over the death of Nasarawa United defender, Chineme Martins following his shock demise during a Match Day 23 league game against Katsina United at the Lafia Township Stadium on Sunday.

The 22-year-old Nasarawa United star slumped after a collision with a Katsina United player, on Sunday afternoon, and efforts to revive him by the medics and subsequent rush to the hospital were unsuccessful.

The NFF has therefore ordered for the onward suspension of league matches until there is medical equipment compliance at different league venues.

This decision came after the Ministry of Youth and Sports, in conjunction with the NFF engaged the League Management Company to review the situation.

The announcement was made via their Twitter handle.

Clubs have therefore been directed to ensure there is full compliment of medical equipment and personnel at all match venues not later than March 14.

A date for the restart of the league was not mentioned.

Twenty-three rounds of matches have so far been played in the 20-team championship.

Plateau United lead the standings with 43 points from 23 matches.