The Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) has invited Chief Chikelue Iloenyosi, chairman of the Anambra State Football Association, as a special guest at its Annual General Meeting and fixture‑draw ceremony. The event is set for 28 July at the Abuja Continental Hotel, with club representatives expected from 27 July ahead of the 2025–26 season kick‑off on 22 August.
NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi confirmed that, besides presenting annual reports, the AGM will host the draw for the new season’s fixtures. Clubs relegated last season Lobi Stars, Sunshine Stars, Akwa United and Heartland—will attend their final meeting, while promoted teams Warri Wolves, Wikki Tourists, Barau FC and Kun Khalifat will be formally welcomed into the elite league.
The ceremony, overseen by NPFL Board Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye and attended by the president of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau, will also attract former internationals to bolster the event’s prestige.
Editorial
We see Chief Iloenyosi’s invitation as a fitting celebration of football’s roots amid the NPFL’s renewed vision. His stature as an ex‑international and respected administrator adds gravitas to an AGM that goes beyond routine reporting it signals intent and direction.
We believe this fixture‑draw ceremony is more than a scheduling exercise; it is a strategic moment. By aligning all 20 league clubs, incoming and outgoing, NPFL affirms unity and continuity at a time when Nigerian football demands stability and collective ambition.
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We feel the presence of high‑profile guests and ex‑players will inspire both leadership and grassroots levels. As the opening whistle, symbolically, approaches on 22 August, this gathering is a reminder that Nigerian football thrives on mentorship and shared history not just scoresheets.
We assert that this AGM must set actionable frameworks not just dates and groups. Efficiency in governance, adherence to improved broadcasting deals, and attention to infrastructure should feature among the reports and discussions.
We maintain that if the NPFL champions this blend of heritage, professionalism and forward momentum, the 2025–26 season may mark a turning point. And with figures like Iloenyosi present, football’s custodians can both honour the past and steer the future together.
Did You Know?
- The 2025–26 NPFL season marks the 36th professional edition and third under the current NPFL branding.
- Four clubs were promoted: Warri Wolves, Wikki Tourists, Barau FC and Kun Khalifat. This replaces the relegated Lobi Stars, Sunshine Stars, Akwa United and Heartland.
- The new season will see 20 clubs vying for the championship, with matches running from 22 August 2025 to 24 May 2026.
- The draw event will be held at the Wazobia Hall inside the Abuja Continental Hotel (formerly the Sheraton), a venue known for hosting high‑profile football ceremonies.
- Chief Iloenyosi previously represented Nigeria at U‑20, U‑23 and senior levels, and now heads Anambra State FA—his career spans both playing and administration.
