Enugu Rangers head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has said he will decide on his future at the club after returning from Super Eagles duty at the Unity Cup in London.

Ilechukwu recently guided Rangers to the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League title following a hard-fought 2-1 win over Ikorodu City in Lagos, securing the club’s ninth league crown and moving them level with Enyimba in the NPFL’s all-time honours list.

The coach, who has now won two league titles in three seasons with Rangers, confirmed that his contract has expired and admitted uncertainty over whether he will continue at the club beyond the current campaign.

According to him, discussions will be held with the club hierarchy after his return from international duty, as he weighs up his next career step following a successful but demanding spell in Enugu.

Rangers’ title success was sealed despite pressure from Rivers United, who finished just one point behind after a 3-0 win on the final day.

Remo Stars F.C. have vowed to bounce back immediately to the Nigeria Premier Football League after suffering relegation on the final day of the 2025/26 campaign, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Sky Blue Stars were held to a dramatic 1-1 draw by Bendel Insurance F.C. at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on Sunday.

Experienced forward Victor Mbaoma handed Remo Stars the lead just before halftime, but Chijioke Akuneto struck deep into stoppage time to rescue a point for Bendel Insurance.

The result confirmed Remo Stars’ relegation after the Ikenne-based club finished 17th on the table with 47 points from 38 matches.

It marked a stunning fall for the club, which only won its maiden NPFL title last season. Remo Stars have now become the fourth reigning league champions to be relegated while defending their crown, following the fate of Stationery Stores, Shooting Stars, and Bayelsa United.

El-Kanemi Warriors F.C., Bayelsa United F.C., and Wikki Tourists F.C. were the other clubs relegated at the end of the season.

Meanwhile, Sporting Lagos F.C., Inter Lagos FC, Doma United F.C., and Ranchers Bees F.C. secured promotion from the Nigeria National League.

In an official statement, Remo Stars admitted the club failed to maintain the level of consistency needed to survive in the top flight but assured supporters that efforts are already underway to secure a quick return.

“The outcome of the season is very disappointing for everybody connected to the club, supporters, players, staff, and management who have invested emotions into the journey,” the club stated.

“We didn’t deliver the performances and consistency required to maintain our place in the division.

“Important decisions will be made, and every effort will be directed towards returning the club to where it belongs.”

Rangers International secured their ninth Nigeria Premier Football League title after battling to a 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Sunday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Flying Antelopes, led by coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, started brightly and broke the deadlock in the 30th minute through Chidiebere Nwobodo.

Nwobodo completed his brace 10 minutes into the second half to hand Rangers firm control of the encounter before Moses Ali reduced the deficit for Ikorodu City in the 58th minute.

Despite late pressure from the hosts, Rangers held on to secure all three points and confirm their place as NPFL champions with 68 points from 38 matches.

Rivers United finished the season in second position after a dominant 3-0 victory against Katsina United in Port Harcourt.

Chijioke Mbaoma netted twice for Rivers United, while Aniekeme Okon added the third goal to complete an impressive performance for the Port Harcourt side.

Shooting Stars Sports Club claimed third place and a CAF Confederation Cup ticket despite suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Niger Tornadoes in Minna.

Abdulrasheed Shehu Dabai converted from the penalty spot four minutes before halftime to hand Tornadoes a crucial victory.

Elsewhere, Enyimba FC preserved their top-flight status with a convincing 3-0 home win over El-Kanemi Warriors.

Stanley Dimgba scored twice for the People’s Elephant before Uwana Asuquo added a late third goal. The defeat confirmed El-Kanemi Warriors’ relegation to the Nigeria National League.

Plateau United edged Kano Pillars 1-0 in Jos, with Victor Dawa scoring the winner deep into stoppage time.

At the Samson Siasia Stadium, Bayelsa United recorded the biggest victory of the final day after thrashing Kwara United 4-0.

Peter Ebimobiwei, Saro Loveday, Stephen Wisdom, and Nneoyi Ofem all found the net for the hosts.

In Kano, Barau FC defeated Nasarawa United 3-0 courtesy of goals from Joseph Atule, Sunday Anthony, and Adamu Hussein.

Final Matchday Results

Niger Tornadoes 1-0 Shooting Stars

Enyimba 3-0 El-Kanemi Warriors

Bayelsa United 4-0 Kwara United

Bendel Insurance 1-1 Remo Stars

Ikorodu City 1-2 Rangers

Rivers United 3-0 Katsina United

Warri Wolves 2-1 Abia Warriors

Plateau United 1-0 Kano Pillars

Barau FC 3-0 Nasarawa United

The Nigeria Football Federation Refereeing Development Committee has suspended referee Yakubu Adamu indefinitely from all league and football-related activities following his performance in the Nigeria Premier Football League clash between Rangers International F.C. and Bendel Insurance F.C., NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

According to the committee, the sanction takes immediate effect after the referee awarded a penalty during the match, which was considered inconsistent with the provisions of the Laws of the Game.

The controversial decision resulted in a goal and was said to have significantly influenced the outcome of the encounter.

The committee further stated that the referee’s actions brought the game into disrepute, leading to the disciplinary action against the match official.

The NFF also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining professionalism, fairness, and integrity in football officiating across the country.

Matchday 37 of the Nigeria Premier Football League delivered another round of exciting fixtures on Sunday, with Kun Khalifat F.C. and Rivers United F.C. securing impressive away victories while Rangers International F.C. maintained their place at the top of the table, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

At the Umuahia Township Stadium, Kun Khalifa stunned Abia Warriors F.C. with a convincing 2-0 victory away from home.

Uchechukwu Onuoha emerged as the match winner for the visitors after scoring in the 3rd and 40th minutes to secure maximum points.

Rivers United also claimed a crucial away win after edging Wikki Tourists F.C. 3-2 in a thrilling encounter, strengthening their title ambitions as the campaign nears its conclusion.

In Ibadan, Shooting Stars Sports Club secured a slim 1-0 victory over Barau F.C. thanks to Lucky Emmanuel’s 41st-minute strike.

Nasarawa United F.C. also recorded a narrow 1-0 win against Plateau United F.C., with Jofrank Istifanus scoring the decisive goal in the 72nd minute.

Remo Stars F.C. fought back from a goal down to defeat Bayelsa United F.C. 2-1 in Ikenne.

Ofem Nneoyi had given Bayelsa United an early lead in the 5th minute before Alex Oyowah equalised just before halftime. Experienced striker Victor Mbaoma later netted the winning goal in the 64th minute.

Veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali converted a stoppage-time penalty to hand Kano Pillars F.C. a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Warri Wolves F.C..

League leaders Rangers International continued their impressive form with a 2-1 victory over Bendel Insurance F.C. to remain firmly on top of the standings.

Elsewhere, Kwara United F.C. defeated Enyimba International F.C. 2-0, El-Kanemi Warriors F.C. and Niger Tornadoes F.C. played out a goalless draw, while Katsina United F.C. thrashed Ikorodu City F.C. 4-1.

Full-Time Results

Shooting Stars 1-0 Barau FC

El-Kanemi Warriors 0-0 Niger Tornadoes

Kwara United 2-0 Enyimba

Remo Stars 2-1 Bayelsa United

Rangers International 2-1 Bendel Insurance

Katsina United 4-1 Ikorodu City

Wikki Tourists 2-3 Rivers United

Abia Warriors 0-2 Kun Khalifa

Kano Pillars 1-0 Warri Wolves

Nasarawa United 1-0 Plateau United

The 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League season is set for a thrilling conclusion on May 24, with the title race, continental qualification battle, and relegation fight all expected to go down to the final day, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

League leaders Rangers International F.C. face arguably the toughest assignment in the title race as they travel to Lagos to confront Ikorodu City F.C. The Flying Antelopes must secure victory to keep alive their hopes of clinching the NPFL crown.

Rivers United F.C., however, appears to hold the advantage heading into the final round of fixtures. The Port Harcourt side will host Katsina United F.C. in what is widely viewed as a favourable fixture as they aim to seal the league title.

Ikorodu City also has plenty to play for in Lagos. The newly promoted side must defeat Rangers and hope Niger Tornadoes F.C. overcomes Shooting Stars Sports Club in Minna to strengthen their chances of finishing in the top three and securing continental football.

For Shooting Stars, even a draw away to Niger Tornadoes could be enough to preserve their position, provided Ikorodu City fail to beat Rangers International.

At the bottom end of the table, Niger Tornadoes remain trapped in a tense survival battle and must defeat Shooting Stars to boost their chances of avoiding relegation while also relying on favourable results elsewhere.

The relegation fight remains extremely tight, with clubs from Kano Pillars F.C. in 10th position down to Niger Tornadoes in 18th still not mathematically safe heading into the final day.

Bayelsa United F.C. and Wikki Tourists F.C. are the only two clubs already confirmed to be relegated.

Elsewhere, Nasarawa United F.C., Bendel Insurance F.C., and Katsina United head into the final round with little left to play for after securing safety while remaining out of contention for both the title and continental qualification places. Barau F.C. also appears close to guaranteeing survival.

Matchday 38 Fixtures – May 24, 2026

Niger Tornadoes vs Shooting Stars

Enyimba International F.C. vs El-Kanemi Warriors F.C.

Bayelsa United vs Kwara United F.C.

Bendel Insurance vs Remo Stars F.C.

Ikorodu City vs Rangers International

Rivers United vs Katsina United

Kun Khalifat F.C. vs Wikki Tourists

Warri Wolves F.C. vs Abia Warriors F.C.

Plateau United F.C. vs Kano Pillars

Barau FC vs Nasarawa United

Bayelsa United F.C. and Wikki Tourists F.C. have been relegated from the Nigeria Premier Football League following defeats in their Matchday 37 fixtures, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Bayelsa United suffered a 2-1 defeat to Remo Stars F.C. in Ikenne, while Wikki Tourist lost 3-2 at home to Rivers United F.C. after conceding two late goals.

Bayelsa United started brightly against Remo Stars and took the lead in the fifth minute through Ofem Nneoyi, who capitalised on a defensive mistake and the hosts’ high line before calmly slotting past the goalkeeper.

Remo Stars responded strongly and equalised four minutes before halftime when Alex Oyowah headed home from a well-delivered free kick. The comeback was completed in the 64th minute as experienced striker Victor Mbaoma swept the ball into the net for his 13th league goal of the season.

The defeat leaves Bayelsa United on 40 points, six points away from safety with only one game remaining, confirming the end of the Yenagoa club’s four-year stay in the NPFL.

Wikki Tourist also had their relegation confirmed despite taking the lead early in the second half through Imanu Bala. Rivers United, however, staged a dramatic late comeback to secure maximum points and send the Bauchi-based side back to the Nigeria National League after only one season in the top flight.

The victory kept Rivers United’s title hopes alive. Managed by Finidi George, the Port Harcourt side remains one point behind league leaders Rangers International F.C., who secured a 2-1 win over Bendel Insurance F.C. at the Cathedral Stadium.

With one round of fixtures remaining, the NPFL title race will now be decided on the final day of the season.

At the bottom of the table, Bayelsa United and Wikki Tourist remain on 40 points, while clubs including Abia Warriors F.C., Kwara United F.C., Enyimba International F.C., Warri Wolves F.C., Remo Stars, Kun Khalifat F.C., and Niger Tornadoes F.C. have moved clear of the relegation zone.

Matchday 37 Results

Shooting Stars Sports Club 1-0 Barau F.C.

El-Kanemi Warriors F.C. 0-0 Niger Tornadoes

Kwara United 2-0 Enyimba

Remo Stars 2-1 Bayelsa United

Rangers International 2-1 Bendel Insurance

Katsina United F.C. 4-1 Ikorodu City F.C.

Wikki Tourist 2-3 Rivers United

Abia Warriors 0-2 Kun Khalifat

Kano Pillars F.C. 1-0 Warri Wolves

Nasarawa United F.C. 1-0 Plateau United F.C.

Warri Wolves F.C. have been hit with heavy sanctions by the Nigeria Premier Football League following breaches recorded during their Matchday 36 fixture against Plateau United F.C., Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

According to the league body, the club failed to provide adequate security at the venue, allowing unauthorised individuals access to restricted areas of the stadium. Supporters were also found guilty of engaging in unsporting conduct capable of bringing the game into disrepute.

In addition, fans were accused of gross misconduct towards match officials, an incident that reportedly caused a 10-minute delay during the encounter.

As a result, Warri Wolves have been fined a total of ?6 million. This includes ?2 million for inadequate security, ?1 million for supporters’ unsporting behaviour, and ?3 million for misconduct directed at match officials.

The league body has also ordered the club to play its remaining home fixtures behind closed doors, further compounding the disciplinary measures.

Beyond the financial penalties, Warri Wolves have been instructed to identify and prosecute those responsible for the incidents and provide evidence of such actions to the NPFL.

The club has been given 48 hours to appeal the sanctions.

Eric Chelle continued his nationwide scouting tour with a high-profile appearance at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, where Ikorodu City F.C. secured a 3–1 victory over Wikki Tourists F.C. in a Nigeria Premier Football League fixture, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Super Eagles boss was warmly received by the home club’s management and presented with a symbolic No. 10 jersey before kickoff, acknowledging his presence at the encounter.

Chelle’s visit forms part of his ongoing effort to assess domestic talent, as he looks to identify players capable of strengthening the national team ahead of upcoming international engagements, including a four-nation tournament in London.

The Franco-Malian tactician has maintained a strong presence across Nigerian football venues in recent days. He was in attendance at the NNL Super Four tournament opener held at the Remo Stars Stadium, and also visited the Lekan Salami Stadium during an NPFL clash between Shooting Stars and Nasarawa United.

Ikorodu City later confirmed his presence via their official platforms, highlighting his attendance during their home victory.

Chelle’s continued engagement with the domestic scene underlines a deliberate strategy to expand the Super Eagles’ talent pool, with increased opportunities expected for standout performers in the local league as preparations intensify for future competitions.

The Nigeria Premier Football League has released its official statistics after Matchday 36, offering a clear picture of a season defined by competitiveness and fine margins, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The data reveal a dominant home advantage across the campaign. Out of 268 victories recorded so far, home teams account for 226 wins, while away sides have managed just 42. A total of 91 matches have ended in draws, with visiting teams suffering 226 defeats, highlighting the difficulty of picking up points on the road.

At the summit, Rangers International F.C. lead the standings with 62 points from 36 matches. Their title push has been built on a solid defensive foundation, conceding just 25 goals—the best record in the league while also boasting a +18 goal difference. Rangers are equally effective in attack, ranking among the joint top scorers with 43 goals, underlining their balance at both ends of the pitch.

At the other end of the table, Bayelsa United F.C. and Wikki Tourists F.C. are level on 40 points, reflecting the intensity of the relegation battle heading into the final stretch of the season.

Meanwhile, Abia Warriors F.C. have impressed on their travels, recording the strongest away performance with five wins. In contrast, Remo Stars F.C. have struggled defensively, conceding 45 goals, the highest in the league, a factor that has significantly impacted their campaign.

With just two matchdays remaining and an outstanding fixture still to be decided, the numbers underline how tightly contested the 2025/26 season has been, with both the title race and survival fight set to go down to the wire.

Rangers International F.C. delivered one of the standout displays of Matchday 34 in the Nigeria Premier Football League with a composed 2-0 away victory over Bayelsa United F.C. in Yenagoa, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports. The Flying Antelopes underlined their title credentials with a confident performance to remain firmly at the top of the table.

In Aba, Enyimba F.C. edged Remo Stars F.C. 2-1 in a lively contest. Victor Mbaoma handed the visitors the lead in the 21st minute, but Stanley Dimgba restored parity shortly after. Chidera Michael then struck early in the second half to secure all three points for the hosts.

Kun Khalifat F.C. claimed a dramatic 2-1 win over Kano Pillars F.C. Mmesoma Nnorom broke the deadlock in the 55th minute before Luis Dadong equalised late on. Oghenetega Ebetomame, however, emerged as the hero with a stoppage-time winner.

At the Bako Kontagora Stadium, Niger Tornadoes F.C. and Kwara United F.C. played out an entertaining 2-2 draw. Abdulrasheed Shehu Dabai opened the scoring from the penalty spot, Babatunde Bright responded quickly, while Akeem Akanni gave Kwara United the lead before Ismail Sarki salvaged a late point for the hosts.

In Ibadan, Shooting Stars S.C. secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Nasarawa United F.C. Lucky Emmanuel netted twice early on, JoFrank Istifanus pulled one back before the break, and Habibu Alakija equalised in the second half. Qamar Adegoke eventually sealed the win with a decisive strike in the 77th minute.

Rivers United F.C. strengthened their continental push with a dominant 3-0 triumph against Abia Warriors F.C. Wasiu Falolu, Timothy Zachariah, and Bello Babatunde were all on target in a convincing display.

Elsewhere, Barau F.C. cruised to a 3-0 win over El-Kanemi Warriors F.C., while Warri Wolves F.C. edged Plateau United F.C. 1-0 courtesy of Tejiri Emonena’s second-half strike.

With just a few rounds left, the title race, continental qualification battle, and relegation fight continue to intensify across the league.

Coventry City F.C. head coach Frank Lampard has praised the influence of Frank Onyeka following the club’s successful push for promotion to the Premier League, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Onyeka linked up with the Sky Blues on loan from Brentford F.C. in January and quickly became a vital figure in the team’s midfield setup. The 28-year-old made 14 league appearances, contributing one goal and one assist while bringing balance and stability to the side.

“Frank has been brilliant. He was a profile of a player we needed in that moment, and he’s come in and given us everything we need, which has really helped the balance of our midfield with what Grimesy does and whoever plays in that 10, how they play,” Lampard told talkSPORT.

The former England international also commended Onyeka’s attitude off the pitch, highlighting his humility and professionalism despite arriving from top-flight football.

“The other thing he (Onyeka) has offered is an incredible humility and work ethic,” Lampard added.

“He’s come in and just breezed into the squad and the dressing room, and he’s come down from the Premier League as an international player and he is so humble.

“I love that, and it’s good for some of our players to see what that looks like.”

Onyeka’s contribution has been viewed as a key factor in Coventry’s success, with his experience and discipline helping to drive the team’s promotion ambitions.

Niger Tornadoes FC players have been promised a ?2 million bonus ahead of their crucial Matchday 36 clash against Kwara United FC in the Nigeria Premier Football League, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The pledge was made by Danjuma Abdul Masu, Chairman of the Niger State Sports Commission, as part of efforts to motivate the squad in their ongoing battle to avoid relegation.

Masu explained that the financial incentive is aimed at lifting the players’ morale and encouraging a strong performance against the Harmony Boys in what is shaping up to be a decisive fixture.

The Ikon Allah Boys currently occupy 14th position on the NPFL table with 43 points, holding a slim three-point cushion above the relegation zone as the season enters its final stretch.

A victory in Sunday’s encounter at the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna would significantly strengthen their survival hopes, while anything less could leave them vulnerable heading into the final rounds of the campaign.

With stakes high on both sides, the incentive adds extra motivation for Niger Tornadoes as they seek to secure their top-flight status.

Victor Ntino-Emo Gidado is aiming for a strong end to the season with Gaziantep F.K. as they prepare for a crucial Süper Lig encounter against Eyüpspor this weekend, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 21-year-old defensive midfielder, who joined Gaziantep during the January transfer window from NK Bravo, has made a solid impression since his arrival. He has featured in seven league matches, delivering consistent performances in the heart of midfield.

Gidado is expected to be included in the squad for the trip to Eyüpspor, who are currently battling to avoid relegation. Gaziantep, positioned in mid-table, are looking to secure their top-flight status as the campaign enters its decisive phase.

Despite the high stakes, the Nigerian remains cautiously optimistic about his side’s chances, acknowledging the challenge ahead while expressing confidence in their preparation.

“It won’t be a stroll in the park, but we are ready and hopeful of a good result,” he said.

Gidado also highlighted his smooth adaptation to life in Turkey, noting that the presence of fellow Nigerian players in the league has helped ease his transition.

Managed by KCG Sporting Management, the young midfielder will be hoping to play an influential role as Gaziantep push to finish the season on a positive note.

The Nigeria Premier Football League has sanctioned Kano Pillars following incidents that occurred during their recent fixture against Rivers United, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The league body confirmed that Kano Pillars have been fined ?15 million for multiple breaches related to the match, as part of disciplinary measures to maintain order and professionalism in the competition.

In addition to the financial penalty, the Sai Masu Gida will play their next three home matches behind closed doors. This sanction includes their only remaining home fixture of the current season, while the other two matches will be carried over to the start of the next campaign.

The NPFL reiterated its commitment to enforcing strict regulations and ensuring clubs comply with established standards, warning that further infractions could result in even more severe disciplinary action.

The Nigeria Premier Football League has confirmed that the 2025/26 season will conclude as scheduled on May 24, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Clubs in the top flight will observe a short break this weekend to accommodate fixtures in the NFF President Federation Cup, a move designed to ensure a smooth and disruption-free calendar.

According to NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, the league had earlier collaborated with the Nigeria Football Federation Competitions Department to create dedicated windows for the Federation Cup.

“We synergised with the NFF Competitions Department at the start of the season to create windows for the Federation Cup. It has been in effect since January and we are running our calendar as designed,” Owumi stated.

He further emphasized that maintaining fixture consistency has been a deliberate effort, requiring coordination and cooperation from all participating clubs.

“We have been intentional to maintain fixture fidelity and it took a lot of planning and cooperation from the clubs to achieve this,” he added.

Following the break, Matchday 36 and 37 fixtures will be played on May 3 and May 10 respectively, while another Federation Cup window is scheduled for May 16 and 17.

The final round of matches will then be played simultaneously on Sunday, May 24, bringing the season to a close.

Emmanuel Deutsch has insisted that Enyimba will not be distracted by their 2–1 defeat to Rangers International in Sunday’s 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday 35 Oriental Derby at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.

The match saw former Rangers winger Wonah Williams put Enyimba ahead early in the second half, but the hosts responded through Ifeanyi Onyebuchi and Chidozie Iwundu, who scored the decisive goal in the 68th minute to end Enyimba’s four-game unbeaten run.

The result leaves Enyimba in 13th position with 43 points, while Rangers climbed back to the top of the table with 59 points.

Despite the setback, Deutsch maintained that the defeat would not derail his team’s survival mission, stressing that the focus remains on securing maximum points in the remaining fixtures.

“Losing such a derby game away isn’t that bad. It wasn’t a bad game. We scored the first goal; they equalised and scored the second,” he said.

“They needed the victory the way we needed it, and it’s a regional derby. They got their three points, congratulations to them, and we will go home to prepare for the next game.”

He added that Enyimba’s current situation demands calmness and focus, describing the loss as a “temporary stumble” as the club continues its fight to finish the season strongly.

The technical adviser of Nasarawa United has reaffirmed his belief that the team can still win the Nigeria Premier Football League title despite stiff competition, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Solid Miners boosted their ambitions with a commanding 3-0 victory over Warri Wolves last weekend, returning to winning ways at a crucial stage of the season.

However, Nasarawa United remain behind league leaders Rangers International and fellow contenders Rivers United, with just three matches left to play.

Speaking after the win, the coach acknowledged the challenge posed by their rivals but insisted his side remains focused on finishing strong.

“We’re worried that our title contenders are also winning their games away. We still have a lot of work to do with the remaining three matches left to end the current campaign to enable us to achieve our goals,” he stated.

With the title race entering a decisive phase, Nasarawa United will need to maintain consistency in their remaining fixtures while hoping for slip-ups from their rivals to keep their championship hopes alive.

The Nigeria Football Coaches Association has commended the leadership of the Nigeria Premier Football League and the Nigeria Football Federation for significant administrative progress recorded during the 2025/26 season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

In a statement issued as the campaign approaches its final stretch, the coaches’ body praised the NPFL board, led by Gbenga Elegbeleye, for ensuring that fixtures have progressed seamlessly up to Matchday 35 without outstanding games, describing it as a major improvement in planning and discipline.

With just three matches left, the NFCA highlighted the league’s adherence to a structured calendar aligned with continental competitions, a departure from previous seasons often affected by scheduling disruptions. The association also credited the NPFL board for effectively handling operational challenges while maintaining the integrity of the competition.

The role of the NFF was equally acknowledged, particularly in areas of governance, coaching development, and improvements in refereeing standards and welfare. According to the NFCA, these efforts are already reflecting in the overall quality of play across the league.

On the pitch, the association noted increased competitiveness, with the title race and relegation battle still open. It also pointed to a rise in away victories, the emergence of young talents, and a closely contested top scorers’ chart as evidence of technical and tactical growth in the league.

The NFCA attributed these gains to deliberate governance reforms, improved planning, and stronger collaboration among stakeholders, adding that enhanced matchday organization and growing confidence in officiating are clear signs of progress.

Looking ahead, the body urged stakeholders to sustain the momentum by focusing on key areas such as improved club infrastructure, expanded broadcast coverage, adoption of a centralized football data system, and the use of end-of-season technical reports to guide future policies.

Reaffirming its support, the NFCA expressed optimism that continued collaboration between technical and administrative bodies will help the NPFL strengthen its position within African football and gradually close the gap with leading global leagues.

Chidera Michael has thrown himself into contention for the 2025/2026 NPFL Top Scorer’s Award after netting his 10th goal of the season in Enyimba’s 3-0 victory over Katsina United, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The youngster’s latest strike in the Matchday 34 clash in Aba sees him move into third place on the scorers’ chart, behind Joseph Arumala of Ikorodu City, who leads with 12 goals, and Godwin Obaje of Rangers with 11.

The ongoing campaign marks Michael’s debut season in the Nigerian top flight following his move from Ozalla Football Academy, and he has quickly established himself as one of the league’s standout performers.

With four matches remaining before the end of the season, the race for the Golden Boot remains wide open, with the Enyimba forward firmly in the mix.

Despite his impressive numbers, Michael has played down individual ambitions, insisting his priority remains the success of the team.

“It has been a tough campaign, but I can only remain grateful to God for everything,” he told Completesports.com.

“I thank God for an injury-free season so far, but I must say I’m not competing with any player for anything. My focus is on helping my club achieve something this season.

“I must thank my teammates, the coaches, and the supporters for their support and encouragement so far.”

The forward also acknowledged the challenges of adapting to top-flight football, while expressing satisfaction with his contributions so far.

“It has been a nice season so far. It has equally been tough. First time in the top league isn’t easy, and scoring ten goals so far is something to be happy about.

“But then, it’s not about me. It’s not about personal glory. It’s all about doing what I am here to do — to contribute my quota to the success of the club.

“Our target is to finish the season on a high, and that’s what we’re focusing on, working hard every day to achieve.”