2026 NWFL Premiership Super Six: Everything You Need to Know as Port Harcourt Hosts Historic Finals

Port Harcourt to Host Historic Finals

The Nigeria Women Football League has announced Port Harcourt as the host city for the 2026 NWFL Premiership Super Six Finals. It will be the first time the season-ending playoffs will be staged in the Rivers State capital, bringing Nigeria’s top women’s clubs to the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium.

Dates and Venue

The competition will run from June 5 to June 14, 2026. All matches will be played at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium over nine days, with six clubs competing for the league crown.

Tournament Format

The Super Six will use a round-robin format. The top three teams from Groups A and B of the regular season qualify. Each team will play five matches during the 10-day event, with rest days scheduled between matchdays to allow for recovery.

Participating Teams

Defending champions Bayelsa Queens headline the lineup. They will be joined by Edo Queens, Rivers Angels, Robo Queens, Nasarawa Amazons, and debutants Abia Angels. The mix of established powerhouses and a first-time qualifier sets up a competitive finale.

Tournament History

The NWFL Premiership has seen parity in recent years, with four different champions in the last five seasons. Rivers Angels won the title in 2021. Bayelsa Queens lifted the trophy in 2022 and again in 2025. Delta Queens emerged champions in 2023, while Edo Queens claimed the crown in 2024.

What’s at Stake

More than the domestic title is on the line. The Super Six winner will represent Nigeria at the WAFU-B qualifiers. Success there secures a place in the 2026 CAF Women’s Champions League and puts the club in contention for the inaugural 2027 FIFA Women’s Club Championship.

Official Programme of Activities

1. June 5: Arrival of teams, official draw, and pre-match technical meeting  

2. June 6: Matchday One  

3. June 7: Rest Day  

4. June 8: Matchday Two  

5. June 9: Rest Day  

6. June 10: Matchday Three  

7. June 11: Rest Day  

8. June 12: Matchday Four  

9. June 13: Rest Day  

10. June 14: Matchday Five and trophy presentation  

With Port Harcourt hosting for the first time and continental qualification at stake, the 2026 Super Six is shaping up as a landmark edition for women’s football in Nigeria.

Written by Charles Mayuku 

Excellent Football Academy Crowned Champions of Ifeanyi Ekwueme U-18 Super 4 Cup 2026

UGHELLI, Delta State – Excellent Football Academy emerged champions of the Ifeanyi Ekwueme Under-18 Super 4 Cup 2026 after topping the group with 4 points and 7 goals.  

The two-day grassroots tournament kicked off on May 26 at the Ughelli Stadium in Delta State, bringing together four state teams for a high-profile competition organized in honour of former Nigerian international Ifeanyi Ekwueme. The event was aimed at identifying and nurturing emerging talents while strengthening youth football structures across the participating states.

According to Tournament Director Mr. Onome James, the competition provided a competitive platform for players to gain exposure, develop their skills, and attract attention from scouts and football stakeholders.  

Match Results

Day 1

- Excellent FA 6-0 Dominion FC  

- Up Lift FC 0-0 Hazon FA (Up Lift FC won 4-3 on penalties)  

Day 2

- Hazon FA 2-0 Dominion FC  

- Excellent FA 1-1 Up Lift FC  

Final Standings 

1. Excellent FA – 1st Place 🏆🥇, 4 points, 7 goals  

2. Up Lift FC – 2nd Place 🥈, 4 points, 4 goals  

3. Hazon FA – 3rd Place 🥉, 3 points, 5 goals  

At the close of the tournament, six players were selected from the two-day scouting exercise and have been invited to report to Enugu this Sunday for trials.  

The Ifeanyi Ekwueme U-18 Super 4 Cup continues to serve as a key platform for youth development and talent discovery in Nigerian football.  

Written by Charles Mayuku

Rivers United Appreciate Rivers State Government and Fans After Securing NPFL Runners-Up Finish and CAF Champions League Qualification

PORT HARCOURT – Rivers United Football Club has expressed deep appreciation to the Rivers State Government, supporters, and stakeholders following the conclusion of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League season, where the club finished as runners-up and secured a place in the CAF Champions League.  

In an official statement, the club said the outcome reflected the resilience, discipline, and unity displayed by the players, technical crew, management, and staff across a demanding 20-club campaign. While the team narrowly missed the league title, Rivers United noted that competing for it until the final weeks reaffirms the standard and ambition that define the club.  

“We accept the result with grace and respect for the champions,” the statement read. “Our focus remains clear: to build on this foundation, address our shortcomings, and return next season with greater resolve to bring the NPFL trophy back to Port Harcourt, where it belongs.”  

The club reserved special gratitude for the Rivers State Government under Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara, as well as the Ministry of Sports, for their consistent investment in sports development and unwavering support. Rivers United described the government’s commitment as the bedrock that enables the club to represent the state with dignity and professionalism on every stage.  

Appreciation was also extended to the “Pride of Rivers” fanbase, whose passion from the stands of Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium and beyond was described as the team’s driving force through both triumph and adversity. The club stressed that the achievement belongs to the supporters as much as it does to the team.  

Rivers United concluded by framing the season as a milestone rather than an end, stating that preparations for the challenges ahead will begin immediately with the goal of making Rivers State proud once again.  

The statement was signed by General Manager Sir Chief Dr. Okey Kpalukwu, GMS, FCAI, JP.

See full text from the official club statement 

Official Statement: Rivers United Football Club on the 2025/2026 NPFL Season

To the Government of Rivers State, Our Esteemed Supporters, and the Pride of Rivers Family

Rivers United Football Club extends its profound gratitude to His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara GSSRS, Governor of Rivers State; the Ministry of Sports; our loyal supporters; and every stakeholder who stood with us and those who held us to account throughout the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League season.

The season has now concluded, and we are proud to announce that Rivers United finished as runners-up in the NPFL, securing Nigeria’s representation in the CAF Champions League once again. This achievement reflects the resilience, discipline, and unity displayed by our players, technical crew, management, and staff across a demanding 20-club campaign. We narrowly missed the title, but competing at the highest level and challenging for it until the final weeks reaffirms the standard and ambition that define this club.

While the ultimate prize eluded us, we accept the result with grace and respect for the champions. Our focus remains clear: to build on this foundation, address our shortcomings, and return next season with greater resolve to bring the NPFL trophy back to Port Harcourt, where it belongs.

We owe a debt of gratitude to the Rivers State Government for its consistent investment in sports development and its unwavering support for Rivers United FC as the pride of the state and, by extension, a source of pride for the nation. Your commitment provides the bedrock upon which we strive for excellence, and we remain dedicated to representing Rivers State with dignity, professionalism, and success on every stage.

To our genuine fans and supporters, the Pride of Rivers, your passion has been our driving force. From the stands of Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium to every corner of the state and beyond, your unwavering belief has carried this team through triumph and adversity. This achievement belongs to you as much as it belongs to us.

Rivers United views this season not as an end, but as a milestone in our journey. The work begins immediately as we prepare for the challenges ahead, with the singular goal of making Rivers State proud once again.

Thank you for standing with us. The Pride of Rivers endures.

Signed:

Sir Chief Dr. Okey Kpalukwu, GMS, FCAI, JP  

General Manager  

Rivers United Football Club, Port Harcourt

Akwa Ibom FA Hails NFF for Choosing Uyo to Host Rangers, Rivers Federation Cup Clash

Akwa Ibom FA Hails NFF for Choosing Uyo to Host Rangers, Rivers Federation Cup Clash

 ____Commends Governor Umo Eno, Sports Commissioner Elder Paul Bassey for securing Godswill Akpabio International Stadium as match venue

The Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Mr Samuel Umoh, has applauded the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for selecting Uyo as the host city for the high-profile President Federation Cup Round of 32 clash between Rangers International and Rivers United FC.

The blockbuster fixture is scheduled to take place on Monday, June 1, 2026, by 4pm at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

Speaking on the development, Umoh described the fixture as one of the biggest domestic games in Nigerian football at the moment, especially after both clubs battled fiercely for the Nigeria Premier Football League title until the final day of the season.

Rangers International eventually emerged league champions after a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City in Lagos, edging Rivers United by just one point to clinch the title.

Both sides will now shift focus to the President Federation Cup as they continue their chase for silverware, with football lovers expected to troop into Uyo for the encounter.

Rangers International and Rivers United are familiar with the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, having used the facility as their venue for CAF club competitions. 

Akwa Ibom State FA Chairman Mr Samuel Umoh thanked the NFF for approving Uyo as host city for the eagerly anticipated fixture.

“We are truly grateful to the Nigeria Football Federation for finding Uyo worthy to host this top-class President Federation Cup game involving the league champions Rangers International and runners-up Rivers United. This is a major football fixture and one that fans across the country are looking forward to. The decision by the NFF once again shows the confidence they have in Akwa Ibom State’s ability to host major football matches successfully.”

The Akwa Ibom FA Chairman also expressed appreciation to Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for approving the use of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium for the match.

According to him, although the NFF had initially designated the Uyo Township Stadium for the fixture, the intervention of the Akwa Ibom State Government through the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, ensured that the game would now be played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

“I want to specially thank His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno, for approving the use of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium for this prestigious game. While the NFF initially assigned the Uyo Township Stadium for the match, the Akwa Ibom State Government, through the efforts of the Honourable Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, ensured that the game will now be played at the best football facility in the country.

“The Governor Umo Eno-led administration deserves great commendation for the excellent maintenance of sports facilities in the state. We must also appreciate Elder Paul Bassey, who received the news of the game coming to Uyo with great excitement and worked tirelessly to make sure the fixture is hosted at a world-class venue befitting both teams and the occasion.”

Umoh further called on football stakeholders, supporters and lovers of the game across Akwa Ibom State and beyond to come out in large numbers to witness what he described as a “massive football spectacle.”

“I want to call on all football stakeholders, supporters and fans to come out en masse and enjoy this massive encounter between the Nigerian league champions and the runners-up. This is a big match that promises excitement, quality football and a great atmosphere. Uyo is ready to welcome both teams and football fans from across the country.”

Peace Effiong Grabs Four Goals as Rivers Angels Drown NAF Queens in President Federation Cup

Rivers Angels striker Peace Effiong delivered a sensational performance on Monday, scoring four goals in just 13 minutes as the Jewels of Rivers cruised to a resounding 12-0 victory over NAF Queens in the Round of 32 of the President Federation Cup.

The encounter, played at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo State, saw Rivers Angels completely dominate proceedings from start to finish in one of the biggest wins of the competition so far.

Effiong, who only recently returned to full fitness after spending a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to injury, produced a remarkable second-half display to further strengthen calls for her recall to Nigeria’s U-17 women national team. The young forward netted in the 73rd, 80th, 83rd and 86th minutes to cap off a memorable individual outing and earn Woman of the Match recognition.

Rivers Angels had already established control long before Effiong’s late heroics. Grace Saliu opened the scoring in the 9th minute before adding her second in the 25th minute, while Abasiofon Uwah struck in the 19th minute to put the Port Harcourt side firmly in command.

Patience Otubo made it four just before halftime in the 41st minute before Ramotalahi Kareem extended the lead shortly after the restart in the 49th minute. Tejiri Edward added another in the 56th minute, while Zainab Oduga and Chisom Nwachukwu got on the scoresheet in the 68th and 72nd minutes respectively.

Peace Effiong then stole the spotlight with a devastating four-goal burst that completed the emphatic victory for Rivers Angels.

The dominant display underlines Rivers Angels’ ambitions in this year’s President Federation Cup as they continue their pursuit of another domestic title.

Full Time

Rivers Angels 12-0 NAF Queens

Grace Saliu — 9’, 25’

Abasiofon Uwah — 19’

Patience Otubo — 41’

Ramotalahi Kareem — 49’

Tejiri Edward — 56’

Zainab Oduga — 68’

Chisom Nwachukwu — 72’

Peace Effiong — 73’, 80’, 83’, 86’

#TheJewelsOfRivers

#PresidentFederationCup

Rivers United vs Katsina United: Pride of Rivers Chase Final-Day Glory

The curtain will finally fall on the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League season on Sunday as Rivers United FC host Katsina United FC in a decisive Matchday 38 encounter at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium.

For Rivers United, this is more than just another league fixture. It is a potential title-deciding afternoon that could crown a remarkable campaign under coach Finidi George. The Pride of Rivers head into the final day sitting second on the NPFL table with 64 points, just one point behind leaders Rangers International FC. 

The Title Equation

The mathematics are straightforward for Rivers United:

Defeat Katsina United.

Hope Rangers fail to win away against Ikorodu City FC.

Anything short of victory would end Rivers United’s title ambitions regardless of results elsewhere. Rangers, meanwhile, control their own destiny and will be crowned champions if they win in Lagos. 

Because of the uncertainty surrounding the title race, the NPFL has reportedly arranged for trophies to be present in both Port Harcourt and Lagos ahead of kick-off — a reflection of how dramatic the final day has become. 

Rivers United’s Momentum

Rivers United arrive at this clash with belief restored after a strong finish to the season. Recent victories over sides like Abia Warriors and Wikki Tourist have kept them firmly in the hunt heading into the last weekend. 

At home, they have been one of the most formidable teams in the NPFL this season:

Six consecutive home wins.

Only one home defeat all campaign.

Goals scored in 13 straight home matches. 

Finidi George’s men have shown resilience during the run-in, particularly after recovering from difficult moments earlier in the season. Their recent away comeback win against Wikki Tourist revived hopes that had appeared to be fading. 

The former Super Eagles coach has repeatedly stressed the importance of focusing solely on the task in Port Harcourt rather than events elsewhere. 

Katsina United Have Nothing to Lose

While Rivers United carry the weight of expectation, Katsina United travel south with far less pressure. The Chanji Boys have already secured safety and occupy a respectable mid-table position heading into the final round. 

Despite their inconsistent away form, Katsina United have shown flashes of attacking quality in recent weeks, including an emphatic victory over Ikorodu City. 

However, their away struggles remain a concern:

Only two away wins all season.

Eight away matches without victory. �

That statistic will encourage Rivers United supporters, especially considering the intimidating atmosphere expected in Port Harcourt.

Head-to-Head

Meetings between both sides have traditionally been tight affairs. Earlier this season, Katsina United held Rivers United to a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture. 

Recent clashes suggest Rivers United often edge encounters at home, but Katsina United have proved difficult to completely dominate.

Port Harcourt Ready for the Occasion

The atmosphere at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium is expected to be electric. The Rivers State Government has already declared free entry for supporters and arranged transportation for fans across Port Harcourt in a bid to create a massive turnout. 

The city senses possibility. Supporters know their team must first do its own job before turning attention to events in Lagos.

Key Battles

Midfield Control

Rivers United will aim to dominate possession early and pin Katsina United deep inside their own half. Quick ball circulation and aggressive pressing could define the tempo.

Handling the Pressure

This may become Rivers United’s biggest challenge. Final-day title races are often decided mentally as much as tactically. The hosts must remain composed if the game stays level deep into the contest.

Katsina’s Counter Threat

With little pressure on them, Katsina United could prove dangerous on transitions. Rivers United’s backline must avoid overcommitting in search of goals.

Whether it will be enough to deliver the NPFL title depends on what happens in Lagos. But one thing is certain — Port Harcourt is preparing for one of the most dramatic afternoons in recent Nigerian football history.

Cynosure FC Issues Formal Demand to Osun State Government Over Valentine Ogbodo Clearance Dispute

The management of Cynosure Football Club has issued a formal demand letter to the Osun State Ministry of Youth, Sports and Special Needs over the continued withholding of captain Valentine Ogbodo’s clearance letter by Osun United Football Club.

In the strongly worded correspondence dated May 22, 2026 and addressed to the Honourable Commissioner of the ministry, Cynosure FC accused Osun United FC of administrative injustice, bad faith, and actions that allegedly resulted in the club’s ban and the declaration of the player as ineligible by the Nationwide League One (NLO).

According to the letter signed by Nwaeze Prince Chidiebere on behalf of Cynosure FC management, the dispute originated during the second half of the Nigeria National League (NNL) season when a proposed loan move involving Valentine Ogbodo to Osun United failed due to unresolved contractual terms.

Cynosure FC explained that Osun United offered the player a monthly salary of ₦80,000, which was significantly below the ₦120,000 he reportedly earned at his parent club. The club further stated that no employment contract or personal agreement was ever signed between the player and Osun United.

The letter noted that after sitting on the substitute bench for a single match on February 14, 2026, negotiations collapsed completely, prompting the player to return to Cynosure FC.

Cynosure FC alleged that despite repeated written offers to reimburse any logistical expenses incurred by Osun United during the attempted transfer process, the Osogbo-based club allegedly declared the player “AWOL” and withheld his clearance documents.

In defending its position, Cynosure FC cited provisions of FIFA’s Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players, particularly Articles 2 and 3, arguing that Valentine Ogbodo cannot legally be regarded as a contracted professional player of Osun United because no written agreement was executed.

The club also maintained that even if professional status was claimed, the player had fulfilled the mandatory 30-day waiting period required before re-registering as an amateur player. Cynosure FC stated that Ogbodo last appeared for Osun United on February 14, 2026, before being registered for the NLO season on March 16, 2026.

Furthermore, the club accused unnamed individuals of deliberately blocking the release of the player’s clearance letter, describing the action as “administrative bad faith” and an unlawful restraint of trade that has negatively impacted both the player’s career and the club’s competitive standing.

As part of its demands, Cynosure FC called for the immediate issuance and upload of Valentine Ogbodo’s clearance letter within 48 hours, alongside a formal withdrawal of the alleged “AWOL” claim submitted to football authorities.

The club warned that failure to comply within the stipulated timeframe would compel its legal team to escalate the matter before the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Players’ Status Committee, while also pursuing punitive damages at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) or other courts of competent jurisdiction.

Cynosure FC concluded by urging the Osun State Government to intervene swiftly and direct Osun United FC to resolve the matter immediately in the interest of fairness, player welfare, and the integrity of football administration in Nigeria.

Rivers Set For Successful Hosting Of FEDUGAM ~ Prof. Odu

All arrangements have been concluded for the successful hosting of the 6th edition of the Federal Education Sector Games (FEDUGAM), tagged Rivers 2026, in Port Harcourt.

The Permanent Secretary, Rivers State Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Sirawoo, disclosed this while conducting some members of the Main Organising Committee (MOC) round the venues and facilities provided by the Rivers State Government for the games.

Dr Sirawoo who spoke on behalf of the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Professor Ngozi Odu, thanked the state governor for the timely release of funds for the games.

"The Rivers State Government has made adequate provisions to ensure a smooth, safe and memorable sporting event for participants and visitors" the member of the LOC stressed.

He stated that the Games, which will feature athletes and officials from agencies under the Federal Ministry of Education, will officially commence with an opening ceremony scheduled for Tuesday (today), May 19, 2026, at the Sharks Stadium, Port Harcourt, by 10:30am.

Dr. Sirawoo, who also serves as Chairman of the Venues and Facilities Committee, listed the designated venues for the various sporting activities as the Port Harcourt Club, University of Port Harcourt, Civic Centre, Sharks Stadium and the Basketball Court, Niger Street, Port Harcourt.

He called on residents of Rivers State to turn out in large numbers to support and cheer the athletes throughout the Games, scheduled from May 16-23, 2026, across the various venues.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Main Organising Committee (MOC), Mrs. Nkiru Nneji, commended the Rivers State Government for providing the necessary facilities and logistics for the successful hosting of the competition.

She particularly praised the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for his immense support towards the Games, noting that his intervention rescued the competition from possible collapse.

Mrs. Nneji further stated that the Federal Ministry of Education remains committed to sustaining its partnership with the Rivers State Government in advancing access to quality education across the state.

Signed: 

Dr. Chris Davies 

Director, Publications

Ministry of Information and Communications 

18/5/2026

Anayo Iwuala Powers Al-Arabi to Crown Prince Cup Glory

Nigerian winger Anayo Iwuala delivered a sensational performance as Al-Arabi SC cruised to a commanding 3-0 victory over Kuwait SC in the Crown Prince Cup final at the iconic Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, securing the club’s 10th title in the history of the competition.

The Super Eagles star was at the heart of Al-Arabi’s dominant display, tormenting the AFC Challenge League champions and reigning Crown Prince Cup holders with his pace, creativity, and relentless attacking threat throughout the encounter.

After a tightly contested first half, Al-Arabi finally broke the deadlock in the 54th minute when Mohammad Khaled powered home a brilliant header from a free-kick opportunity created after a foul on the electric Anayo Iwuala. 

The moment perfectly reflected the winger’s influence on the game, as his constant pressure forced mistakes from the opposition defense.

Iwuala continued to dictate the tempo with dazzling runs and intelligent movement, inspiring his side as Al-Arabi tightened their grip on the final. Substitute Ali Khalaf doubled the lead in the 81st minute, finishing calmly to put the result beyond doubt before Zaid Qunbar added the third deep into stoppage time to complete a memorable night for the Green Giants.

The emphatic victory not only sealed another historic trophy for Al-Arabi but also further highlighted the growing importance of Anayo Iwuala within the squad. His outstanding display on one of the biggest stages in Kuwaiti football once again reignites conversations surrounding his return to the Nigeria national football team setup ahead of the upcoming Unity Cup.

With performances of this magnitude, many Nigerian football fans and pundits believe the dynamic winger has once again shown that he possesses the quality, experience, and match-winning ability needed to make a strong impact for the Super Eagles on the international stage.

Written by Charles Mayuku 

NLO 2026: Stakeholders Urge Review of Match Scheduling at Kano’s Sani Abacha Stadium

Kano – Stakeholders in the 2026 Nationwide League One have called on the league organizers to adjust the match schedule at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, citing player safety concerns linked to high daytime temperatures.

Matches are currently being scheduled during peak afternoon hours, when the sun is at its strongest. Stakeholders say the artificial synthetic turf at the venue absorbs and retains heat, making the playing surface excessively hot and increasing the risk of injuries to players.

“The surface becomes unplayable under the midday sun. Players are coming off with burns, dehydration, and muscle strains that could have been avoided,” one stakeholder said. “This is not just uncomfortable; it’s a safety issue.”

To address the concern, stakeholders are requesting that matches at the Sani Abacha Stadium be scheduled either in the early morning or from 4:00 PM onwards, when temperatures drop and the turf cools down. 

They have formally called on the NLO secretariat to review and adjust the fixture timing to protect player welfare and ensure fair competition.

The NLO has not yet issued a public response to the request. Organizers are expected to weigh the logistical demands of the competition against the health and safety recommendations raised by the clubs.

The Nationwide League One serves as Nigeria’s third-tier football league and a key pathway for developing domestic talent.