Olopade, Elegbeleye Laud Clubs, Urge Quality Representation for Nigeria
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has emphasized the urgent need for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) to attract multiple mega sponsorships to ensure its growth and sustainability. Speaking at the conclusion of the 2025/2026 NPFL season, Olopade stated that the league is ripe for multi-billion naira sponsorship deals and called for collective efforts to achieve this goal.
Olopade noted significant improvements in the league's structure, planning, and timing, describing the atmosphere at the season finale as amazing. He urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the NSC, and the league board to collaborate in securing adequate funding to match the league's growing appeal.
He congratulated the new champions, Rangers FC of Enugu, as well as Ikorodu City and Rivers United for their performances throughout the season. Enugu Rangers clinched the title with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, while Rivers United secured a 3-0 win over Katsina United on the same day.
Elegbeleye Commends Clubs
NPFL Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye praised all 20 clubs for completing an impressive and competitive season, noting that fixtures were followed from start to finish. He extended congratulations to the teams that earned continental competition tickets and urged them to begin preparations immediately to ensure a formidable presence for Nigeria in African club competitions.
Elegbeleye also acknowledged the relegated clubs, including Remo Stars, El-Kanemi Warriors, Bayelsa United, and Wikki Tourists, and encouraged them to bounce back stronger. He emphasized the need to change the narrative of recent performances in continental tournaments.
Season Summary
Enugu Rangers finished top of the table after Matchday 38, followed by Rivers United in second place. Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) secured third place after defeating Niger Tornadoes, despite Ikorodu City's loss. The three clubs will be joined by the winner of the President's Federation Cup to represent Nigeria in CAF club competitions later this year.
