The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) will officially resume on 28 August with a compelling South-west derby as Shooting Stars host newly promoted Inter Lagos at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan. The announcement came on Friday during the league's Annual General Meeting (AGM), where the complete fixtures for the 2026/27 season were unveiled.
Season opener highlights
The curtain-raiser promises to be a thrilling encounter as five-time champions Shooting Stars take on Inter Lagos under the floodlights in Ibadan. The remaining Matchday One fixtures are scheduled for Sunday, 30 August, giving fans a full weekend of top-flight Nigerian football.
Former title contenders Rivers United will begin their campaign at home against Plateau United, while Doma United welcome Sporting Lagos. In Ilorin, Kwara United will launch their season against Kano Pillars at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl Stadium.
Key fixtures and preparations
Kwara United are currently participating in the Ahlan/Gusau Preseason Tournament in Katsina, where coach Ashifat Sulyman is using the competition to fine-tune his squad ahead of the new season. Elsewhere, Barau FC host Nasarawa United in Kano, while Abia Warriors entertain Kun Khalifat.
Last season's fourth-placed team, Ikorodu City, will begin their campaign at home against returning side Ranchers Bees. Bendel Insurance face Warri Wolves in a South-South derby, while Rangers welcome Katsina United in Enugu. Niger Tornadoes take on former champions Enyimba in Minna.
Early tests and expectations
The opening fixtures promise an early test for several clubs, with supporters hoping their teams can make a positive start in what is expected to be another fiercely contested NPFL season. The 2026/27 campaign features returning clubs, newly promoted sides, and several intriguing opening-weekend encounters.
The opening weekend is expected to set the tone for the season as clubs begin the race for domestic honours and continental qualification. The NPFL has also announced a historic ₦1 billion champions' prize money for the 2026/27 season, raising the stakes for all participating teams.
Full Matchday One fixtures
- Friday, 28 August: Shooting Stars vs Inter Lagos
- Sunday, 30 August: Rivers United vs Plateau United
- Doma United vs Sporting Lagos
- Barau FC vs Nasarawa United
- Ikorodu City vs Ranchers Bees
- Abia Warriors vs Kun Khalifat
- Bendel Insurance vs Warri Wolves
- Rangers vs Katsina United
- Kwara United vs Kano Pillars
- Niger Tornadoes vs Enyimba
With the fixtures now public, clubs and fans alike can plan for what promises to be an electrifying start to the 2026/27 NPFL season.
