Tag: NWFL

The Nigeria Women’s Football League has stopped  the 2025/26 season in a move aimed at preserving fairness and sporting integrity across the competition.

Following the completion of Matchday 7 on Wednesday, the NWFL confirmed that league action will resume on February 18, after reviewing concerns raised over players’ availability due to national team commitments. The situation, which affected one club significantly, prompted intervention at federation level.

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NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi explained that the decision was taken to ensure no team is unfairly disadvantaged as the season progresses. The adjustment means Matchday 8 will now usher in the league’s return, while the planned mid-season break has been shortened to one week to keep the calendar on track.

The 2025/26 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership reaches a defining moment on today as Matchday Four ushers in the final round of fixtures before the Christmas break.

Coming off a dramatic Matchday Three that saw a flurry of away wins, the league now shifts into a phase where momentum, pride and pressure collide across both groups.

Three derbies headline the round—two intense South-West showdowns and a fiery South-South encounter in Port Harcourt—while several fixtures offer early opportunities for contenders to lay down markers and for struggling sides to steady their campaigns ahead of the festive recess.

In Benin City, Edo Queens return home keen to build consistency after bouncing back from an opening-day slip in Yenagoa with a gritty away win in Ado Ekiti against Ekiti Queens. The former champions will look to lean on their structure and pedigree to reassert control against a stubborn Adamawa Queens who are atop Group A with seven points after three games.

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Adamawa Queens, however, arrive unbeaten and full of confidence. Compact at the back and clinical going forward, they see this trip as a chance to extend their fine run and underline their growing credentials. Expect a closely fought contest.

Port Harcourt hosts a classic South-South derby as Rivers Angels square up against Ibom Angels. Rivers Angels have begun the season in commanding fashion with two consecutive wins  and will aim to maximise home advantage to maintain their authority.

Ibom Angels travel south eager to upset the hierarchy. Though results have been mixed, their resilience and motivation to avenge last season’s disappointments add extra spice to a fixture steeped in regional rivalry.

In Yenagoa, defending champions Bayelsa Queens continue their title defence at home against group’s whipping team, Pacesetters FC after an eye-catching away victory last time out in Abuja. Confidence is growing, and their attacking cohesion is beginning to shine through.

Pacesetter Queens face a daunting task as they continue their learning curve in the topflight. A disciplined performance will be key if they are to frustrate the champions and leave with anything tangible

In Abuja, Naija Ratels return to Abuja desperate to bounce back from a heavy defeat at home to Bayelsa Queens and finally ignite their season. With the break approaching, the pressure to respond is unmistakable.

Heartland Queens arrive more settled, buoyed by solid early results and tactical organisation. Their ability to counter with pace could prove decisive in a fixture that has often been finely balanced.

Asaba plays host to a battle of necessity as Delta Queens and Confluence Queens chase their first wins of the season. Delta will hope home comfort and pedigree spark a revival in the ongoing season with just a draw from three games.

Confluence Queens have shown flashes of promise but must translate moments into results. With both sides eager to avoid a winless run into Christmas, nerves and composure may decide the outcome.

Osogbo stages a keenly anticipated South-West derby as Osun Babes host an ambitious Remo Stars Ladies side. The hosts will depend on organisation and crowd support to stabilise their campaign.

Remo Stars Ladies arrive in buoyant mood after a strong start, blending youth and discipline effectively. A positive result here would further strengthen their growing reputation in the topflight.

Another South-West clash sees unbeaten FC Robo Queens take on Dannaz Ladies in Lagos . The Lagos Landladies have been ruthless so far and will aim to preserve their perfect record.

Dannaz Ladies, stung by their first defeat of the season in Akure to Sunshine Queens, will rely on physicality and resilience to disrupt Robo’s rhythm and revive their early momentum.

In Lafia, Nasarawa Amazons continue their steady start against an Abia Angels side urged on by their first season’s win last midweek. The former champions have been defensively sound and efficient when it matters with only one goal conceded after three games.

Abia Angels travel with belief, encouraged by past successes against the Amazons and hoping to turn confidence into another statement result.

A historic first-ever top-flight meeting sees Ahudiyannem Queens welcome Sunshine Queens to Umuahia. Still winless, the hosts view this as a chance to reset and restore belief.

Sunshine Queens arrive uplifted by a long-awaited victory and will be keen to build momentum as survival ambitions take shape.

With derbies, title ambitions and survival stories all converging, Matchday Four promises intrigue and intensity, setting the tone for the NWFL Premiership as it heads into the Christmas break.

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Secretariat has formally confirmed the relegation of Castmog Ladies from the 2025/2026 NWFL Premiership after the club failed to meet essential licensing and registration requirements for the new season.

The decision, in a statement by its Media Director, Samuel Ahmadu, on Monday November 24, 2025, follows earlier issued clear warnings to three Premiership clubs, including Castmog Ladies, to comply with all registration and licensing obligations, but the Abeokuta-based outfit failed to meet the stipulated deadline despite the reminders.

While confirming the development, NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Ms. Modupe Shabi, revealed that the Secretariat has begun adjusting competition logistics to reflect the revised structure.

 “We have a responsibility to protect the integrity of the league, and compliance with registration and licensing requirements is a non-negotiable part of that process,” she said.

The NWFL COO emphasised that adherence to registration and licensing rules is essential to maintaining a credible and competitive league system while supporting the long-term growth and sustainability of women’s football across the country.

She added that revised season schedule and operational details will be released in the coming days.

 “Our focus is to ensure the season proceeds smoothly on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. Updated fixtures and communication will be issued to all clubs, and we remain committed to transparency and professionalism at every stage,” Shabi stated.

According to the NWFL Secretariat, all other affected clubs complied with the stipulated requirements within the allocated timeframe, leaving Castmog Ladies as the only Premiership side unable to satisfy the compulsory standards.

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With the Ogun State-based club now officially relegated, the Premiership season will proceed with the approved number of 19 teams. As a direct consequence, every club, including Rivers Angels originally scheduled to face Castmog Ladies in the opening and subsequent fixtures will now observe a bye on those matchdays.

Revised NWFL Premiership Matchday One Fixtures – November 26

Group A

Bayelsa Queens vs Edo Queens

Adamawa Queens vs Pacesetters Queens

Heartland Queens vs Ekiti Queens

Naija Ratels vs Ibom Angels

Group B

Nasarawa Amazons vs Delta Queens

Confluence Queens vs Abia Angels

Sunshine Queens vs Robo Queens

Ahudiyannem Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies

Dannaz Ladies vs Osun Babes

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has issued a firm warning to clubs yet to complete their digital registration and club licensing procedures ahead of the new Premiership season, stressing that non-compliant teams risk sanctions, including relegation.

With the November 22 deadline fast approaching, the league organizers, in a statement on Tuesday by Media Director, Samuel Ahmadu, confirmed that Castmog Ladies, Osun Babes, and Naija Ratels are among the clubs still behind schedule in meeting the mandatory digital documentation and licensing requirements.

All processes are now conducted through the league’s digital registration portal to ensure transparency and efficiency as part of efforts to professionalise women’s football in Nigeria.

NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Modupe Shabi, urged the outstanding clubs to complete their submissions without delay, reaffirming that the deadline will not be extended.

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 “The digital registration and licensing process is designed to ensure that every club meets the minimum professional standards required to compete,” Shabi said.

 “We expect full compliance before the November 22 deadline. Any club that fails to meet these financial and administrative obligations will face the consequences as outlined in our regulations. Our commitment is to run a credible, properly structured league.”

The NWFL reiterated its determination to enforce all regulatory provisions to guarantee a seamless start to the new season and uphold the integrity of the competition.

The 2025 NWFL Nationwide has officially concluded with four outstanding teams sealing promotion to the prestigious NWFL Championship for the 2026 season.

Dreamstar Ladies of Lagos secured an immediate and triumphant return to the second tier as Group A winners. They were joined from the same group by Rangers Women of Enugu, who made history by gaining promotion in their debut campaign.

In Group B, Solo Wonders FC of Akwa Ibom emerged as champions following an impressive run, while Rosaria Victrix of Imo State also secured their spot as runners-up, both achieving promotion in their maiden appearances in the third tier league.

The quartet — Dreamstar Ladies, Rangers Women, Solo Wonders, and Rosaria Victrix, have all earned their places among Nigeria’s emerging forces in women’s football, each finishing in the top two of their respective groups to book their tickets to the country’s second tier, NWFL Championship 2026.

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Reflecting on the conclusion of the 2025 women’s football season, which encompassed the NWFL Premiership, Championship, and Nationwide, Chief Operating Officer of the Nigeria Women Football League, Modupe Shabi, expressed deep satisfaction with the smooth and successful execution across all tiers.

 “This 2025 season has been a remarkable journey for the NWFL. From the Premiership through the Championship to the Nationwide, we have witnessed great football, renewed competitiveness, and remarkable stories of resilience and growth across the country,” Shabi stated.

She also commended the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), led by President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, for its unwavering support to women’s football and the continued strengthening of the league system.

Shabi further revealed that preparations are already underway to ensure an early kick-off of the 2025/2026 season, promising new innovations and an even more competitive league structure designed to sustain the progress and excitement across all levels of the NWFL.

“We owe immense gratitude to the NFF President and his board for their backing and vision, which continue to inspire the growth of the women’s game. Our appreciation also goes to the various hosts, clubs, administrators, state FAs, match officials, and the media, every stakeholder who contributed to the success of this season,” she added.

The successful completion of the 2025 NWFL season reaffirms the league’s unrelenting commitment to excellence, development, and inclusivity, as women’s football in Nigeria continues to grow in stature and impact nationwide.

• Remo Stars, Naija Ratels, three others jostle for remaining three tickets

The shape of the six teams that will compete in the Nigeria Women’s Football League Premiership Season ending playoff has become clearer following the penultimate fixtures of the regular season played yesterday.

Edo Queens, Bayelsa Queens and Rivers Angels were the only teams certain of participating in the playoff before the NWFL Premiership Matchday 13 games were played but Nasarawa Amazons, Abia Angels, Remo Stars Ladies, Naija Ratels and FC Robo Queens are all in hot pursuit of the remaining three tickets.

In Group A, the reigning champions, Edo Queens lost their unbeaten start to the season after a 1-0 loss to Nasarawa Amazons in Lafia. Wonder girl, Janet Akekeromowei’s 89th minute strike broke the resistance of the Edo Arsenals and boosted the Solid Miners Ladies’ Super Six chances.

Edo Queens are still the runaway leaders in the group and are projected to finish Group A in first spot irrespective of their result in the last game of the season next midweek. They have 32 points from as many games. But the permutations might change if Remo Stars Ladies beat Abia Angels today in a rescheduled game and also thrash their opponents in the last game of the season. Edo Queens must also lose their last game of the regular season for them to be usurped.

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In Anyigba, Hannah Yusuf’s second-half finish earned the Confluence Queens all three points in a tight encounter against Ekiti Queens. It was only Confluence Queens’ second win of the season and it dragged the relegation battle to the concluding fixture of the season.

They are last with seven points and will need an away win and also hope that Heartland Queens are beaten before their fans next week to retain their premiership status.

A late strike from Ulumma Korie handed Dannaz Ladies a crucial win and dented Heartland’s survival hopes. Korie struck in the 86th minute to ensure the Lagos based side secure their second win of the season.

Dannaz Ladies who are sixth with 10 points need a draw to escape relegation in their debut season in the event that Heartland Queens (nine points) and Confluence Queens (seven points) get victories in their last games.

In another Group A game in Umuahia, Abia Angels versus Remo Stars Ladies was postponed due to torrential rainfall which left the Umuahia Township Stadium  waterlogged. The game was called off in the 24^th  minute and would continue today at 8:30am from the point it was stopped.

In Group B, Bayelsa Queens pipped Rivers Angels 1-0 in the star game of the group and the win meant the Prosperity Girls would finish the group in first position with a game to spare. Alaba Olabiyi third minute stunner ensured the 2022 League champions kept their unbeaten streak in the league this season. They are the only unbeaten side in the topflight.

They have 33 points from 13 games while Rivers Angels are on 29 points but have been beaten twice in the regular season.

Ibom Angels stunned title-chasing FC Robo Queens with a disciplined display and precious home win to put a question mark on the Lagos side’s quest to qualify for the Super Six.

The Uyo side will host another topflight campaign next season and most importantly they have inadvertently helped to boost Naija Ratels’ Super Six chances.

In Asaba, Naija Ratels scored twice, one in each half to inflict a 2-0 home loss on their host, Delta Queens. Sofiat Bankole and Rita Tsebee with the goals in the 32nd and 75th minutes.

Ratels are in third spot with 22 points and three points off fourth placed FC Robo Queens and better goals difference. A draw will be sufficient for Super Six ticket in their last game in Abuja.

While FC Robo Queens must beat Delta Queens at home and pray that Rivers Angels beat Naija Ratels for them next week.

In Lafia, Benue Queens and Adamawa Queens played out a thrilling four goal thriller.

Adamawa Queens were ahead twice in the game through Omon Afensimi and Josephine Dzer in the 12th and 78th minutes but Joy Ikyagh and Anastasia Emefo in the 68th and 83rd minutes from the penalty spots restored parity on both occasions.

It was Benue fifth point of the season in their debut campaign but they are sure to play in the NWFL Championship next season all other things been equal.

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) is ushering in a new era under its visionary leadership, with a renewed focus on attracting sponsorships and transforming women’s football in Nigeria.

The 2024/2025 NWFL Premiership kicks off  today  with an electrifying Week 1 Star Match between holders Edo Queens and Abia Angels at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.

This landmark opener will be broadcast live on NTA Sports 24 and StarTimes, signalling the league’s commitment to bringing women’s football to the forefront.

Speaking about the league board’s new direction, NWFL Chairperson Nkechi Obi emphasized the board’s dedication to innovation and growth: “We are determined to create a league that is both competitive and commercially viable. The introduction of live broadcasts and floodlight matches is a step toward making the NWFL a household name across Nigeria and beyond.”

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She added: “This season, fans can expect weekly star matches on TV, showcasing the incredible talent we have in women’s football. Our goal is to inspire and attract the support needed to elevate the game to new heights.”

As part of the new strategy, the NWFL will feature weekly star matches broadcast live on TV, ensuring fans nationwide can connect with the league’s best moments. Additionally, floodlight matches will debut this season, adding an exciting dimension to matchdays and enhancing the viewing experience.

This bold step is designed to enhance the league’s visibility, attract investment, and inspire a new generation of female footballers.

The NWFL is committed to building a commercially viable and globally recognized league, setting a new benchmark for women’s football in Africa

In a bid to ensure increased visibility for the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) this coming season, the Board has reaffirmed its commitment by engaging with StarTimes, a key broadcasting partner.

Following the NWFL Annual General Assembly held in Abuja on Tuesday, Ms. Nkechi Obi, Chairman of the NWFL Board, led a high-powered delegation to meet with StarTimes management .

Obi remarked that: “This partnership is a vital step in our mission to bring the excitement of the league to a wider audience and showcase the talent in women’s football.”

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During the discussions, StarTimes’ Chief Operating Officer, Engr. Tunde Aina reiterated: “StarTimes is committed to delivering top-quality coverage and ensuring that our viewers enjoy every moment of the women’s leagues.”

These initiatives aim to significantly boost audience engagement and elevate the NWFL’s profile both locally and internationally. The discussions covered the production and coverage of matches, highlight shows, and strategic marketing of league content across StarTimes’ diverse channels.

As a key outcome of the meeting, a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is being finalized, with both parties expressing optimism about concluding arrangements in time for the Season Opener.

The anticipated partnership is expected to kick off with the high-stakes NWFL Premiership clash between defending champions Edo Queens and Abia Angels at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on January 15, 2025.

The meeting was attended by high-ranking NWFL officials, including Vice Chairperson Hajiya Hussina Suleiman and Board member Madam Henrietta Ihiabor.

The Congress of the Nigeria Women’s Football League has approved Wednesday, 15^th  January, 2025, as the kick-off date for the 2024/2025 NWFL Premiership season.

The Congress also approved the opening star match to hold between defending champions Edo Queens and Abia Angels at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on the same day in Benin.

It was resolved that the two-group league format (Groups A and B) would still be retained for the 2024/2025 NWFL Premiership season, with the draw ceremony conducted through seeding. The groups are as follows:

Group {A}: Edo Queens FC; Abia Angels FC; Ekiti Queens FC; Heartland Queens; Confluence Queens; Remo Stars Ladies; Nasarawa Amazons; Dannaz Ladies FC

Group {B}: Rivers Angels FC; Ibom Angels FC; Adamawa Queens; Naija Ratels FC; Honey Badgers FC; FC Robo Queens; Bayelsa Queens FC; Delta Queens FC.

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Earlier before the draw, the promotion of Ibom Angels and Honey Badgers to the NWFL Premiership from the Championship was confirmed, while Royal Queens and Sunshine Queens were relegated to the Championship

The Congress also unanimously agreed to Increase the number of clubs in the Premiership from 16 clubs to 20 clubs as from the 2025/2026 Season so that arrangements would be put in place to ensure its successful take-off.

The NWFL congress also retained the 20 clubs structure for the Championship while the implementation of the hitherto approved States League as the 3rd Tier of the NWFL takes effect from the 2024/2025 season.

The Congress also aligned with the institution of several Board Committees to assist in implementing the new structure of the Three {3} Tiers of the League as follows: {A}. Marketing and Communication Committee; {B}. Premiership Super 6 Committee; {C}. Championship Committee; {D}. States League Committee.

The Federal Capital Territory is set to host the 2024 Annual General Assembly (AGA) of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) on Tuesday, December 17^th.

The Chief Operating Officer, Modupe Shabi, confirmed  in a statement  yesterday that all arrangements have been finalized for the AGA, which will take place at Fabino by Toprank Hotels, Abuja.

The AGA meeting promises to be a significant gathering in charting a way forward for the women’s football rising agenda and the women’s football leagues in Nigeria.

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Key stakeholders, including board members and representatives of Premiership and Championship clubs, will review the successes and challenges of the outgone 2023/2024 season.

Notably, Edo Queens emerged champions of the NWFL Premiership for the first time, while Honey Badgers and Ibom Angels secured promotion to the Premiership from the NWFL Championship.

The AGM will also focus on sustaining the league’s growing credibility and improving operations while setting the calendar and start date for the 2024/2025 NWFL Premiership and Championship campaigns.

This pivotal meeting aims to further strengthen women’s football in Nigeria and lay the groundwork for the league’s continued growth.