By Francis Iberi
The excitement is palpable, The anticipation has reached a fever pitch! The countdown has began, its 10 days to the start of the ever pulsating, intriguing, and competitive Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). Preparations are in top gear, with friendlies being played, players and coaches trading clubs.
Which club will win the cash price of 200 million naira? Will the NPFL Champions, Remo Stars retain their title or will the 2025/2026 season spring up a new Champion? Watch out for Wikki Tourists, Barau FC, Warri Wolves and Kun Khalifat FC. They will likely lit up the league.
Twenty(20) teams (consisting the top sixteen teams from the previous season and four promoted teams from the Nigeria National League) will have 38 matches to jostle for points; 380 games to keep the fans excited and Sport Analyst engaged.
It is expected that the number of live broadcast will be increased, which will make the league more accessible to fans and attract more commercial partners. This may include giving more broadcast right to broadcast partners.
Installation of LED floodlights and backup generators to ensure that night games can be hosted without interruption. This move is aimed at improving the matchday experience for fans and ensuring better quality for broadcast partners.
Another major change is the increase in the prize money for the league champion, which has been raised from ₦150 million to a record ₦200 million. This significant financial reward is expected to fuel a more intense competition among the top clubs.
Match officiating promises to be improved as referees have gone on advanced trainings including VAR training
With the NPFL set to kick off on 22nd August, 2025, the NPFL would have succeeded for the third consecutive season in starting the League in August as part of the NPFL board’s effort in realigning with global football calendar. The league will end on 24th May, 2026.
Defending champions Remo Stars kick off their title defense against last season’s runner up Rivers United in what promises to be a blockbuster clash.
In a clash of titans, Abia Warriors do battle with Kano Pillars as Niger Tornados tackles Nasarawa United, Kwara United books a date with Ikorodu City as Wikki Tourists welcomes Plateau United. Enugu Rangers entertains new comers Kun Khalifat.
Shooting Stars lockhorns with Bayelsa United while new comers Barau test their strength against Enyimba International. El kanemi Warriors tackles Bendel Insurance while Kastina United welcomes newcomers Warri Wolves.
