The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has finalized arrangements to crown the champions of the 2025/26 season in either Lagos or Port Harcourt. Enugu Rangers and Rivers United are locked in a fierce title race, with only one point separating the Flying Antelopes from the Pride of Rivers.
Title Decider Scenarios
Enugu Rangers, currently on 65 points, travel to face Ikorodu City in Lagos, while Rivers United host Katsina United in Port Harcourt. Rangers must secure a victory in Lagos, but Ikorodu City is chasing a CAF Confederation Cup spot, making the task challenging. A draw for Rangers combined with a Rivers United win would leave Rangers in second place, albeit with a CAF Champions League berth.
To ensure the champion is crowned on Sunday, the final matchday of the 2025/26 season, the NPFL has arranged for the trophy to be present at both venues. NPFL Media Manager Harry Iwuala told The Guardian that all preparations are complete for a grand finale. Top NPFL officials, NSC dignitaries, government representatives, and league partners will attend the crowning ceremony.
Simultaneous Matches Across Nigeria
All ten matches on the final day will kick off simultaneously to ensure a level playing field. While Rangers and Rivers United vie for the title, other clubs like Enyimba, defending champions Remo Stars, and Kano Pillars are fighting for survival. Nine teams—including Kwara United, El Kanemi, Kun Khalifat, Plateau United, Niger Tornadoes, and Warri Wolves—are in the relegation zone with only one game remaining.
Only three points separate 10th-placed Kano Pillars (48 points) from 18th-placed Niger Tornadoes (45 points). Kwara United, Plateau United, and El-Kanemi are 11th, 12th, and 13th respectively, all on 47 points but separated by goal difference. Enyimba (14th), Remo Stars (15th), and Warri Wolves (16th) have 46 points each. Niger Tornadoes, in 17th with 45 points, can still survive if they beat Shooting Stars in Minna on Sunday and other results go their way.
Relegation Battles Intensify
Kwara United have a favorable chance to avoid relegation as they visit already-relegated Bayelsa United in Yenagoa. A draw may suffice if other relegation-threatened teams lose. Enyimba face El-Kanemi in Aba, where the winner will survive; a draw favors El-Kanemi. Plateau United and Kano Pillars also face must-win situations, with Kano Pillars needing only a draw to stay up, while Plateau United must win. Kun Khalifat, Remo Stars, and Warri Wolves all require victories. Remo Stars have the toughest task, traveling to Bendel Insurance in Benin. Warri Wolves, at home against Abia Warriors, have a clear path to survival since Abia Warriors are not involved in relegation or title battles.
