Abakaliki FC will compete in the 2025/26 Nigeria National League (NNL) despite being relegated to the third-tier Nationwide League One, Completesports.com reports. The Ebonyi-State based side secured their second-tier status by acquiring Hammola FC’s NNL slot, with Hammola having earned promotion from the Sagamu centre in recent playoffs.
The players regrouped on Monday, 11 August 2025, and began preparations immediately under coach Ifeanyi ‘Ahidjo’ Onyedika .
A club official, speaking anonymously, stated: “Yes, we’re going to play in the NNL in the coming season and we’re very happy about it. … We’re grateful to our Governor, Nwifuru, who fulfilled his Executive promise to ensure that we remained in the NNL, even if it meant buying a slot.”
Last season also saw Abakaliki FC stun many with their President Federation Cup run, reaching the final before falling to Kwara United on penalties.
Editorial
We see this as a bold and pragmatic move retaining Nigeria National League status despite relegation highlights ambition and commitment to growth. By purchasing Hammola FC’s slot, the leadership under Governor Nwifuru has demonstrated tangible support for local football, sending a strong signal to both fans and players.
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We appreciate that immediate training was prioritised, ensuring momentum from their Cup final appearance carried into preparations for the new campaign. Coach Ifeanyi ‘Ahidjo’ Onyedika’s early involvement suggests a disciplined and structured approach ahead of the 2025/26 season.
We believe that this strategic continuity, paired with community-driven support, can form a cornerstone for future achievements. Retaining their second-tier position is not merely a technicality—it offers a renewed platform to build competitive spirit and pursue genuine promotion in the seasons that follow.
Did You Know?
- The Nigeria National League (NNL) operates as the second tier of Nigerian club football, positioned just below the Nigeria Premier Football League.
- Hammola FC, whose slot was acquired by Abakaliki FC, hails from Osogbo and earned their promotion spot through victory at the Sagamu playoff centre.
- Abakaliki FC’s trip to the 2025 President Federation Cup final earned them the nickname “Rice Boys,” celebrated for uniting their community behind them even while playing in lower divisions.
- Purchasing another club’s slot is a recognised but rare mechanism in Nigerian football, requiring approval and coordination through league and federation structure.
- Coach Ifeanyi ‘Ahidjo’ Onyedika, now at the helm for the upcoming NNL campaign, not only began training immediately on resumption but also symbolises a renewal in tactical focus and ambition.
