Tag: NPFL

Matchday 13 of the Nigeria Premier Football League promises high-stakes drama across multiple centres but none more compelling than the relegation dogfight in Benin City. With  Insurance and Kano Pillars anchored at the foot of the table, today’s clash transcends three points—it’s a battle for survival, momentum and stability, writes TUNDE LIADI.

The spotlight of Matchday 13 shines brightest on the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, where relegation-threatened Bendel Insurance and Kano Pillars face off in a high-pressure encounter today.

Positioned in the bottom two, both clubs are in dire need of a morale-boosting result. Insurance, winless in eight games, last celebrated victory on September 13 when they edged Niger Tornadoes with a late strike. Pillars, on the other hand, have gone five matches without a win since their narrow 1-0 triumph over Kwara United on October 8.

Kennedy Boboye, hired to revive  Insurance’s fortunes, is still searching for his first win after recording just three draws and one loss in four games. His counterpart, Mohammed Babaganaru—an icon in Kano following his two league titles—has also yet to inspire a turnaround. With both clubs drowning in poor form, today’s fixture could define the trajectory of their season.

Tomorrow in Lagos, Ikorodu City welcome Plateau United as they continue their remarkable push near the top of the table. The Lagos side sit third on 21 points and are brimming with confidence following their stylish away win over Warri Wolves. Plateau United, buoyed by last weekend’s win over Bendel Insurance, will hope to stall Ikorodu City’s momentum. For coach Shola Adegun, the Mobolaji Johnson Arena offers familiar territory, and perhaps, an opportunity for a statement result.

The highly anticipated South West derby between Shooting Stars and Remo Stars will not hold as the Lekan Salami Stadium is unavailable due to political engagements. A new date will be announced by the league body.

In Owerri, Kun Khalifat will seek redemption before their supporters when they confront table-topping Nasarawa United. Having fallen to Rivers United on Monday, the Imo side can’t afford back-to-back home defeats with pressure mounting on the dugout.

Read Also: Ancelotti calls for mental resilience after Brazil’s first loss to Japan

El Kanemi Warriors, meanwhile, host Kwara United in Maiduguri with the wounds of their late collapse against Remo Stars still fresh. Kabiru Dogo’s side surrendered a 1-0 lead to lose 2-1 in Abeokuta and must now overcome the resilient Harmony Boys, who continue to impress under coach Ashifat Sulaiman.

In Minna, Niger Tornadoes lock horns with Katsina United in a meeting of two sides desperate for stability. Katsina’s disappointing draw at home to Barau FC last weekend sparked unrest among supporters, while Tornadoes hope to recover from their defeat in Bauchi to Wikki Tourists.

Kano will witness Barau FC’s home tie against Rangers, a clash loaded with implications for the survival battle. Barau FC, sitting in the relegation zone, picked up an impressive away point last weekend but must start converting draws to wins to escape danger. Rangers, however, arrive with renewed confidence after securing their first away win of the season against Remo Stars in Abeokuta.

Rivers United, now fourth with 20 points and a game in hand, continue their climb as they host Warri Wolves in a South-South derby. Warri Wolves, sitting sixth, surprisingly harvest their best results away from home and have struggled for consistency at their Ozoro base.

Bayelsa United, having frustrated Kano Pillars in Katsina last weekend, are under pressure to deliver at home against Abia Warriors. With a technical crew operating under the shadow of an ultimatum, the Prosperity Boys cannot afford another slip in Yenagoa. Abia Warriors themselves arrive disappointed after being held to a goalless draw in the Abia derby by Enyimba.

In Aba, Enyimba host Wikki Tourists in a clash of Elephants. The People’s Elephant picked up a valuable point in Umuahia following their win over Kano Pillars two weeks ago and will target maximum points against a Wikki side that has struggled to impose itself away from home. The game also pits current Wikki coach Abdu Maikaba against his former employer—adding further intrigue.

NPFL MATCHDAY 13 FIXTURES:

Insurance vs Kano Pillars

Ikorodu City vs Plateau United

Kun Khalifat vs Nasarawa United

El Kanemi Warriors vs Kwara United

Niger Tornadoes vs Katsina United

Barau FC vs Rangers

Rivers United vs Warri Wolves

Bayelsa United vs Abia Warriors

Enyimba vs Wikki Tourists

Shooting Stars vs Remo Stars (Postponed)

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 12 fixtures promise another thrilling weekend of top-flight action across the country, with fierce derbies and crucial battles set to unfold.

The action begins this evening in Katsina, where Katsina United welcome Barau FC in the curtain-raiser. But the standout fixture of the round comes on Sunday in Umuahia — the Abia Derby — as Abia Warriors face Enyimba International.

Last season’s clashes between the two Abia rivals produced intense drama, and another high-octane encounter is expected. The Umuchineke Boys sit second on the log with 21 points, while the People’s Elephant occupy seventh with 16 points, both eager to make a statement in the title race.

Another mouthwatering tie takes place in Enugu, where Rangers International host Shooting Stars at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium tomorrow. The Flying Antelopes were held goalless by El Kanemi Warriors in Maiduguri, while 3SC played a 1-1 draw at home with Katsina United. The Oluyole Warriors famously triumphed in Enugu last season courtesy of an Ikouwen Utin’s thunderbolt, and they’ll be keen to repeat that feat.

Rangers have struggled for consistency, failing to win a game in their last three games, while Shooting Stars are seeking redemption after losing their five-game unbeaten run to Wikki Tourists in Bauchi and the home draw versus Katsina United.

Read Also: NFF to revamp youth football structure , says Gusau

In Bauchi, Wikki Tourists will aim to extend their three-match unbeaten streak when they host Niger Tornadoes. Abdu Maikaba’s side earned a valuable point in Kano against Barau FC to climb to 14th place, while the Ikon Allah Boys are under pressure to respond after last weekend’s home defeat to Abia Warriors.

Elsewhere, Kano Pillars take on Bayelsa United at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina where they are currently banished to, while Warri Wolves and Ikorodu City clash in Ozoro.

In Lafia, league leaders Nasarawa United will defend their top spot against Kwara United in a North Central derby. The Solid Miners reclaimed first place with a vital 2-1 win over Remo Stars on Thursday and will look to consolidate their lead with another win.

Three matches are scheduled for Monday: Remo Stars host El Kanemi Warriors in Ikenne as they seek to bounce back from Thursday’s defeat; Plateau United entertain Bendel Insurance in Jos; and Khalifat FC battle Rivers United in Owerri to round off the Matchday 12 fixtures.

Coach Ladan Bosso has expressed confidence in Barau FC’s  readiness as they prepare to face Abia Warriors in Umuahia on Matchday 10 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

Speaking ahead of the encounter, Bosso said his players have shown renewed determination following their impressive 2-1 comeback victory over Kano Pillars in Kano last weekend — a win that boosted morale in the Barau FC camp.

 “The spirit in the team is very high after the win against Pillars. The players are beginning to understand our philosophy better, and that gives me confidence going into the game in Umuahia,” Bosso stated.

Reflecting on the upcoming challenge, the experienced tactician acknowledged the familiarity he has with the opposition, having previously managed the Umuahia-based side.

 “Abia is my second home; I coached Abia Warriors for two seasons, so I know the environment very well,” Bosso said with a smile. “But this time, I’m coming as an opponent, and we’ll approach the game with focus and respect. I won’t reveal our strategy, but we have our plans.”

Bosso praised his players for their discipline and commitment in recent weeks, noting that the team’s turnaround was a result of hard work and belief.

Read Also: Bosso leads Barau in hot chase for points against Bayelsa United

 “My players have been disciplined, and they are willing to give their all. We’re gradually finding our rhythm, and I believe if we stay consistent, we can move up the table,” he added.

The coach also appreciated the motivation provided by club owner Senator Barau Jibrin, whose encouragement and financial incentives have lifted the squad’s morale.

 “The Senator has been supportive. His message and motivation after the Pillars game inspired the players a lot,” Bosso revealed.

As Barau FC head to Umuahia, Bosso maintained a balanced outlook—confident in his team’s potential but aware of the challenges ahead.

 “It won’t be an easy match, but with the confidence and unity in the squad, we believe we can get a positive result,” he concluded.

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has issued a strong warning to clubs over the unsporting conduct of ball boys during league matches, describing the deliberate hiding of match balls as a serious breach of fair play and league regulations.

In a circular dated October 14, 2025, and signed by the league’s Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, the NPFL management expressed deep concern over what it called “unscrupulous and improper behaviour” by some ball boys—often to the advantage of home teams.

The league stated that such acts amount to unfairness and violate the NPFL’s operational frameworks, especially when used to waste time or disrupt the flow of play.

Read Also: Troost-Ekong confident Super Eagles will qualify for 2026 World Cup

 “The continuous attitude of ball boys hiding match balls when the game is still on, and probably in favour of the home team, constitutes an act of unfairness and a breach of the frameworks and rules of the NPFL,” the circular read in part.

The NPFL declared that the misconduct will no longer be tolerated and will henceforth attract a fine of ₦1 million for any club found complicit, as stipulated under Section C of the league’s rulebook.

To ensure smooth match operations, clubs have also been directed to make a minimum of 10 match balls available at all times during NPFL fixtures.

 “Any team found wanting and encouraging such attitude will be sanctioned with a fine of One Million Naira, as such behaviour is contrary to fair play and brings the game into disrepute,” the circular reiterated.

The NPFL Board restated its commitment to preserving the integrity and credibility of the league, while also copying the notice to all State Football Associations for strict enforcement and oversight.

Matchday 8 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) served up drama and surprises, headlined by Kun Khalifat FC’s stunning 1-0 victory over Enyimba in Owerri — a result that ended the People’s Elephant’s unbeaten start to the season.

Debutants Kun Khalifat, who have struggled to find consistency by virtue of playing their home games in Aba, produced a disciplined performance against the former champions in their first game in Owerri this season. Ebuka Nwokorie’s perfectly executed 69th-minute free kick — his fifth goal of the campaign — sealed the famous win and handed the Pride of Imo their second victory of the season. The three points lifted them to 18^th  position with eight points, while Enyimba slipped to third on 13 points, losing ground in their chase for the league summit.

At the top, Nasarawa United continued their impressive run with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Rangers International in Lafia. The visitors drew first blood through Wisdom Ebirim in the 19^th  minute, but Anas Yusuf levelled from the spot in the 32^nd  before John Joshua netted the decisive strike in the 62^nd  minute. The Solid Miners’ victory moved them to 19 points — four clear of second-placed Abia Warriors.

Abia Warriors themselves consolidated their fine form with a comfortable 2-0 triumph over El-Kanemi Warriors, thanks to a first-half brace from Casmir Azubuike in the 24^th  and 28^th  minute.

Read Also: Startup unveils data-driven technology to revolutionise sports predictions

Elsewhere, Katsina United stunned visiting Remo Stars 3-1 with goals from Elijah Akanni, Uche Collins (penalty), and Abdulrahman Garba, while Adams Mustapha’s stoppage-time strike earned Shooting  Stars a draw in Kano against Kano Pillars.

In other matches, Plateau United dispatched Barau FC 2-0 in Jos courtesy of goals from Amietimi Enewarikpemi and Vincent Temitope, Wikki Tourists shared the spoils with Kwara United in a 1-1 draw, Ikorodu City edged Bendel Insurance 1-0 through Folarin Temitope’s early goal, and Bayelsa United were held 1-1 by Niger Tornadoes.

With Nasarawa United pulling clear at the summit, Abia Warriors, Enyimba, and Rivers United that will host Bayelsa United this morning following the downpour that rendered the pitch unplayable. They recent remain within striking distance — but Matchday 8 once again proved that in the NPFL, no team is too small to deliver a big upset.

NPFL RESULTS

Kun Khalifat 1-0 Enyimba

Plateau United 2-0 Barau

Abia Warriors 2-0 El-Kanemi

Nasarawa United 2-1 Rangers

Warri Wolves 1-1 Tornadoes

Wikki Tourists 1-1 Kwara United

Katsina United  3-1Remo Stars

Ikorodu City 1-0 Insurance

Kano Pillars 1-1Shooting Stars

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) enters Matchday 8 with rivalries reignited across the regions. From the South-South to the South East, fans are set for an action-packed weekend featuring two regional derbies and a symbolic “battle of the warriors” writes TUNDE LIADI

 Regional derbies and the battle of the warriors headline a pivotal weekend of NPFL Action. It’s another thrilling weekend of top-flight football as regional bragging rights and warrior pride dominate the narrative.

In Port Harcourt, Rivers United seek to avenge last season’s shock home defeat to Bayelsa United at the Adokie Amiesimaka Stadium. The Pride of Rivers, chasing league leaders Nasarawa United, know only a win will suffice to stay in contention. Bayelsa United, however, will need more than determination to repeat their 2024 heroics after struggling in recent weeks.

Read Also: Alleged N33.8b fraud: Court admits ex-power minister Mamman’s confessional statement

In Owerri, Kun Khalifat FC welcome Enyimba in what promises to be a heated Oriental Derby. Kun Khalifat, bottom of the log with just five points, are desperate for redemption after a string of uninspiring home results. Enyimba, unbeaten and second on the table with 13 points, have been clinical but face their first real away test against a side with nothing to lose and everything to prove.

Over in Umuahia, two teams with “Warriors” in their names will go head-to-head — Abia Warriors versus El Kanemi Warriors. Abia Warriors, fresh from a 2-0 defeat to Rangers, need an immediate response to stay relevant in mid-table battles, while El Kanemi will fancy their chances of stealing vital away points.

Elsewhere, champions Remo Stars travel to Katsina hoping to steady their campaign after mixed results, while Nasarawa United aim to cement their top spot in Lafia against a resurgent Rangers side.

Kano Pillars, Plateau United, Wikki Tourists, and Warri Wolves all have statement games to play as the season gathers momentum in their ties against Shooting Stars, Barau and Kwara United.

Rangers International FC of Enugu continued their impressive run in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with a 2-0 victory over Abia Warriors in a keenly contested Oriental derby played at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Tuesday.

Goals from Chigozie Iwundu and Godwin Obaje in the 15th and 33rd minutes sealed the win for the Flying Antelopes, who have now climbed to fifth place on the log with 11 points from seven matches.

Read Also: Poor  Super  Eagles’ outing in Bloemfontein: Envoy slams NFF

Despite the loss, Abia Warriors remain in fourth position with 12 points.

In another NPFL fixture decided in Kano, Rabiu Ali’s 23^rd -minute goal handed Kano Pillars a narrow 1-0 win over Kwara United at the Sani Abacha Stadium.

The result moved Pillars up to 16^th  place with seven points, while Kwara United sit just above them in 13^th  position with eight points.

Some consequential adjustments have been made to the Matchday 6 fixtures of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) due to the continental engagement of four of the teams.

Remo Stars, Rivers United are playing in the CAF Champions League while Abia Warriors and Kwara United are involved in the CAF Confederation Cup this weekend.

The NPFL has through a memo signed by the Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi shifted the affected fixtures to new dates.

Read Also: Bonmatí is Women’s best player for third consecutive year

Abia Warriors will now host fellow continental challenger, Remo Stars on October 1, same day Rivers United has been scheduled to host Niger Tornadoes.

The Kano Pillars versus Kwara United tie will be played at the Sani Abacha Stadium on October 8.

In a related development, Plateau United have joined Bendel Insurance to play their home fixtures on Saturdays and no longer on Sundays. Therefore, Insurance will host Bayelsa United on Saturday, September 27 and Plateau United would host El-Kanemi Warriors on the same date at the New Jos Road Stadium.

All other fixtures remain as originally scheduled.

NPFL clubs have been warned against participating in any youth league not sanctioned by the board.

Clubs have been directed to stop taking part in the N-Youth League, which has no affiliation with NPFL.

There is the NPFL Youth League, which is active & it will amount to de-marketing for clubs in the top division to take part in such alongside lower division and amateur teams.

Read Also: NFF lauds  Adeniyi on election as Chairperson of WCO

The NPFL board is the only authorized body by the NFF to organize a youth league for the clubs in the elite division.