Nigeria National League (NNL) Chairman, George Aluo, has praised the impressive opening-day performances of the four newly promoted sides in the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Aluo described the results as a strong testament to the quality and competitiveness of the NNL, noting that the clubs showed they were not in the top flight to make up the numbers.
“It’s a wonderful performance by the four teams that gained promotion at the end of last season,” Aluo said. “Warri Wolves defeated Katsina United away, Wikki Tourists beat Plateau United, Kun Khalifat held Rangers International to a goalless draw, and Barau FC also drew 0-0 with Enyimba in Kano. It was a good way to start.”
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He urged the newcomers to stay focused and consistent as the long 38-match campaign progresses.
Matchday One Round-Up
- Remo Stars 1–1 Rivers United
- Elkanemi Warriors 2–0 Bendel Insurance
- Abia Warriors 1–0 Kano Pillars (Paul Samson 1st half goal)
- Shooting Stars 0–1 Bayelsa United (Ibadan)
- Rangers International 0–0 Kun Khalifat FC
- Kwara United 0–0 Ikorodu City
- Barau FC 0–0 Enyimba (Kano)
- Katsina United 0–1 Warri Wolves
Aluo’s commendation reinforces the view that promoted teams are increasingly prepared to challenge established NPFL sides, setting the stage for a more competitive campaign.
Editorial
We perceive Aluo’s recognition as a significant morale boost for these ascending teams. Stepping into the NPFL presents a formidable challenge, yet they have embraced it with composure and ambition.
We believe their strong starts reflect not just individual talent but also the organisational robustness that has guided their promotions. Whether Wikki Tourists, Barau FC, Warri Wolves, or Kun Khalifat, each appears determined not just to participate but to compete meaningfully.
We emphasise that football thrives on stories like these emerging clubs refusing to fade quietly, instead asserting themselves early in the campaign.
We hold faith that this kind of early momentum can drive sustained impact. If momentum meets prudent management, these teams may shape NPFL narratives with their tenacity rather than becoming headline fodder.
Did You Know?
- Barau FC is privately owned by Senator Barau I. Jibrin, the Deputy Senate President, and secured NPFL promotion for the first time in 2025.
- Wikki Tourists returned to Nigeria’s top flight after emerging promotion qualifiers from the NNL Super 8 playoffs.
- Warri Wolves clinched their NPFL return by topping the NNL Super 8 with a 2–1 playoff win.
- Kun Khalifat FC, also privately owned, secured promotion to the NPFL after a successful playoff run, having only gained entry into the NNL in 2024.
- The 2025–26 NPFL season began on 22 August 2025, featuring 20 teams including the four newly promoted sides among its line-up.
