Remo Stars Begin NPFL Title Defence Against Rivers United

Remo Stars, the reigning Nigeria Premier Football League champions, will begin their 2025/26 title defence by hosting Rivers United at their home ground in Ikenne. The fixture was confirmed at the official draw ceremony held in Abuja as the NPFL season prepares to kick off on the weekend of 22–24 August 2025.

This season’s campaign will feature 20 teams, each playing 38 matches (19 home and 19 away). In a bid to enhance crowd control, the organisers have scheduled clubs from the same state to avoid hosting games on the same weekend— a measure aimed at improving logistics and fan experience.

Other notable matchday one fixtures include Enyimba facing newly promoted Barau FC in Aba, while Kano Pillars travel to take on Abia Warriors. Wikki Tourists will host Plateau United, Rangers entertain Khun Khalifat FC, and Shooting Stars welcome Bayelsa United in Ibadan.

The draw, held at Abuja Continental Hotel, featured former internationals helping to determine the fixtures. NPFL Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye highlighted the league’s growing popularity, in part due to the return of notable Super Eagles stars like Ahmed Musa, Shehu Abdullahi, Brown Ideye, and Godwin Obaje to domestic clubs.

Plans are also underway to introduce VAR technology in the NPFL. The NFF has already dispatched referees to Morocco for training in anticipation of its implementation in the league.

With improved scheduling, rising supporter interest, and innovations on the horizon, the upcoming season promises to be one of the most eagerly anticipated in recent NPFL history.

Editorial

We believe beginning the title defence with a high‑stakes encounter against Rivers United sets the stage for a compelling season ahead. Remo Stars earned their place at the summit in style, and starting at home offers both opportunity and pressure.

The NPFL’s decision to stagger home fixtures for teams in the same state reflects a true commitment to fan safety and matchday logistics. This thoughtful approach could significantly elevate the overall supporter experience. The league’s resurgence owes much to the return of superstar talents like Ahmed Musa and Brown Ideye. These players have not only boosted quality but renewed public interest, reminding us how star power can energise domestic competitions.

Introducing VAR is another signal of progress. While implementation carries challenges, the move demonstrates that the NPFL is serious about aligning with global standards. It’s a bold step toward transparency and fairness in match officiating.

Balance remains vital. Clubs need to pair ambition with professionalism, ensuring recruitment, scheduling, and support systems align. Fans expect more now—and rightly so. If the league capitalises on momentum, the 2025/26 season could mark a turning point for Nigerian club football.

For Remo Stars, navigating this opener successfully could energise their journey toward a historic retention. For the league, the upcoming weeks are an opportunity to redefine professionalism and attract a broader audience. We firmly stand behind the view that this season can elevate standards—on and off the pitch.

Did You Know?

1. Remo Stars clinched their maiden NPFL title on 27 April 2025 by defeating Niger Tornadoes 1–0, becoming the first South‑West club to win since Julius Berger in 2000.
2. Manager Daniel Ogunmodede, who led them to the title, is known for his “Ijaball” tactical philosophy a blend of possession football influenced by Mourinho, Klopp and Guardiola.
3. The Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, which hosts the club’s home games, has a capacity of just 5,000 spectators and opened in 2020.
4. The NPFL has increased champions’ prize money to N200 million in recent seasons, reflecting growth and sponsorship interest.
5. Promoted clubs Barau FC and Kun Khalifat join Warri Wolves and Wikki Tourists in the 2025/26 NPFL lineup, restoring fresh competition to the top flight.