The Nigeria National League (NNL) has announced October 2025 as the official kickoff month for the 2025/2026 season. This was confirmed during a strategic board meeting held on Saturday, July 12, at the VIP Lounge of the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Delta State.
As part of its roadmap for the new campaign, the Board also scheduled the league’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the last week of August 2025.
The high-level meeting marked a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s second-tier football league, as it reviewed the just-concluded 2024/2025 season and set a fresh agenda for growth and reform.
The Board expressed deep gratitude to Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, and the people of Delta State for their warm hospitality and sponsorship of the 2025 NNL Promotion Playoffs.
They also congratulated the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, on his recent elevation to President of the West African Football Union Zone B (WAFU B), describing the appointment as a deserved recognition of his leadership in regional football.
In addition, the Board acknowledged the NFF Executive Committee’s decision to extend the tenure of the current NNL leadership, pledging unwavering loyalty to the Federation and commitment to professionalizing Nigerian football.
Key sponsors and partners were also recognized, including Prostar Recreational Services Ltd, Sportlight Hub Ltd, Sofascore, and Monimichelle. Special mention was given to Hon. Kunle Soname for hosting the pre-season workshop and seminar that shaped the successful 2024/2025 campaign.
The Nigeria National League Clubs Owners Association (NALCOMA) was praised for its discipline and collaboration throughout the season, with a call for deeper cooperation moving forward.
The Board commended the Nigeria Referees Association and the NFF Referees Appointment Committee for improved officiating standards, which bolstered the league’s integrity.
Looking ahead, the Board announced plans to establish a Constitution Review Committee to assess and revise key articles in the league’s Rules and Regulations, with the goal of enhancing governance and operational efficiency.
The Board confirmed the promotion of four clubs to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL): Wikki Tourists FC, Barau FC, Warri Wolves FC and Kun Khalifat FC.
Eight clubs were relegated from the NNL to the lower division after struggling during the season: Ijele FC, Igbajo United FC, 1472 FC, Abakiliki FC, Madiba FC, Gateway FC, Zamfara United FC and Adamawa United FC.
As the curtain falls on the 2024/2025 season, the NNL Board reaffirmed its dedication to continuous improvement, strategic stakeholder engagement, and global best practices to enhance the league’s commercial and competitive edge.