The Nigeria National League (NNL) has officially announced that the 2025–26 campaign will begin in October 2025, following a board meeting at Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba on 11 July. While an exact match date is yet to be finalised, the league has also scheduled its Annual General Meeting for the last week of August, as part of preparatory steps for the upcoming season.
During the meeting, NNL officials expressed gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the people of Delta State for hosting the 2025 promotion playoffs. The board also congratulated NFF President Ibrahim Gusau on his appointment as President of WAFU B by CAF.
In readiness for the new season, attention will turn to stadium inspections and compliance with league standards. The board plans to establish a committee to review league regulations and is examining multiple venues to ensure they meet facility and safety requirements. These developments follow the NNL’s ongoing drive to professionalise its operations and elevate Nigeria’s second-tier league.
Editorial
We commend the NNL’s early decision to set October 2025 as the start month for the next season. By establishing the AGM in August, the board has created a clear timeline for planning essential for clubs, sponsors and logistics alike. This early structure reflects a more professional approach and bodes well for league stability.
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Recognising Delta State’s role in hosting the promotion playoffs reinforces the importance of local support in football development. Such collaborations help broaden the league’s footprint and boost grassroots engagement. Similarly, congratulating the newly elected WAFU B president signals unity with regional leadership.
Inspection of stadiums and formation of a constitution review committee indicate a serious commitment to standards. Clubs must have venues that meet criteria for safety, broadcasting and matchday experience. The implication is that the league is prioritising the fan experience and the integrity of competition.
We believe these steps will solidify the NNL’s reputation as a breeding ground for talent and a platform for sustainable growth. With proper planning, infrastructure investment and governance reform, the 2025–26 season has the potential to be one of the most professionally run in recent memory. Our hope is that this calendar structure becomes the league’s norm—from kickoff clarity to regulatory oversight, the NNL appears ready to take its next step forward.
Did You Know?
- The NNL promotion playoffs in 2025 were hosted in Delta State, showcasing the region’s capacity to support national football events.
- Prominent sponsors of the NNL include Prostar Recreational Services Ltd, Sportlight Hub, Sofascore and Monimichelle.
- Four clubs earned promotion to the NPFL this year: Wikki Tourists, Barau FC, Warri Wolves and Kun Khalifat.
- Eight teams, including Ijele FC and Gateway United, were relegated from the NNL after struggling in the 2024–25 season.
- The NNL will form a Constitution Review Committee to modernise its rules, aiming to align the league with best practices and improve governance
