The Nigeria National League (NNL) has announced that the 2025/2026 season will kick off in October 2025.
This was confirmed after a board meeting held on Friday, 11 July, at the VIP Lounge of the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State. The Board also revealed that the league’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place in the last week of August 2025 as part of preparations for the new season.
The meeting focused on reviewing the 2024/2025 season and setting out plans to build on recent improvements in the league.
The NNL Board thanked the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, and the people of the state for their hospitality and sponsorship of the 2025 NNL Promotion Playoffs.
The Board also congratulated the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, on his appointment as President of the West African Football Union Zone B (WAFU B). They described it as a well-deserved honour from the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
In addition, the Board welcomed the NFF’s decision to extend the tenure of the current NNL leadership. They promised continued support for reforms aimed at professionalising Nigerian football and strengthening the league’s role in developing local talent.
Sponsors and partners were also appreciated for their contributions. These include Prostar Recreational Services Ltd, Sportlight Hub Ltd, Sofascore, and Monimichelle. Special thanks were given to Hon. Kunle Soname for hosting the pre-season workshop and seminar that helped improve the league.
The Nigeria National League Clubs Owners Association (NALCOMA) was praised for its cooperation and discipline during the just-concluded season. The Board called for even more teamwork in the upcoming season.
The Board also commended the Nigeria Referees Association and the NFF Referees Appointment Committee for their role in improving officiating in the league.
Looking ahead, the Board plans to set up a Constitution Review Committee to update the league’s Rules and Regulations and improve how the league is run.
Promotions and Relegations
At the meeting, the Board confirmed the promotion of the following four clubs to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL):
- Wikki Tourists FC
- Barau FC
- Warri Wolves FC
- Kun Khalifat FC
Eight clubs were relegated to the lower division after poor performances in the 2024/2025 season:
- Ijele FC
- Igbajo United FC
- 1472 FC
- Abakiliki FC
- Madiba FC
- Gateway FC
- Zamfara United FC
- Adamawa United FC
The NNL Board restated its commitment to improving the league, working with key stakeholders, and making Nigerian football more competitive and attractive.
