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.”

Finidi George has expressed satisfaction with Rivers United’s performance following their matchday 34 victory over Plateau United, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The former champions secured a 1-0 win against Gbenga Ogunbote’s side at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, with Wisdom Samuel netting the decisive goal in the 10th minute after a fine assist from Taofeek Otaniyi.

The result saw Rivers United return to the top of the NPFL table, boosting their title ambitions as the season approaches its final stages.

Reflecting on the game, Finidi admitted his side did not create many chances but maintained control throughout the contest.

“It’s a match that we didn’t create too many scoring chances, but the shot went in in the first half. I think in the second half, we had another chance. That was the highlight of the match,” he told the club’s media.

“We didn’t suffer much, it was a game that we controlled properly, no too much stress at the back. We didn’t create much too.

“If you look at the overall performance of the team, it was a good one. We are quite happy with the performance, and the victory.”

Rivers United will next face Kano Pillars at the Sani Abacha Stadium as they continue their push for the league title.

Rivers United have climbed back to the top of the Nigeria Premier Football League standings following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Plateau United, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

An early strike from Wisdom Samuel in the 11th minute proved decisive, as Rivers United secured all three points to strengthen their title push.

In Ibadan, Kwara United held Shooting Stars to a goalless draw, earning a valuable away point in a tightly contested encounter.

Elsewhere, Barau FC edged Remo Stars 2-1, with late goals from Joseph Atule and Joseph Kemin overturning the advantage Haruna Hadi had given earlier.

Ikorodu City recorded an emphatic 3-0 win over Kano Pillars, courtesy of goals from Joseph Arumala, Tosin Oyedokun, and Abayomi Ayodeji.

Nine-time champions Enyimba also impressed, cruising to a 3-0 victory against Katsina United, with Stanley Dimgba, Chidera Michael, and Wonah Williams all finding the net.

Kun Khalifat continued their strong form with a 3-0 win over Warri Wolves, as Mnesoma Nnorom and Uchechukwu Onuoha, who netted a brace, sealed the victory.

Meanwhile, Wikki Tourists claimed a narrow 1-0 away win against Bayelsa United, with Imamu Bala scoring the decisive goal in the 67th minute.

The latest round of results has further intensified the NPFL title race, with Rivers United now setting the pace at the top as the season enters a decisive phase.

Enyimba International were held to a 2-2 draw by Wikki Tourists in a Nigeria Professional Football League Matchday 33 clash in Bauchi, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The hosts made a strong start to the encounter, taking the lead in the 14th minute through Bala Imamu, who capitalised on early pressure to put Wikki Tourists ahead.

Enyimba responded after the break, with Samuel Okechukwu finding the equaliser in the 54th minute to bring the visitors back into the contest.

Wikki Tourists restored their advantage in the 70th minute when Jonathan Mairiga found the back of the net, sparking hopes of a home victory.

However, Enyimba showed determination deep into stoppage time, as Onyebuchi Nwaorisa struck in the 97th minute to rescue a vital point for the Aba-based side.

The result sees both teams share the spoils in a closely fought encounter as the league campaign enters its decisive phase.

Enyimba FC star Edidiong Ezekiel has expressed confidence that the club will avoid relegation as they prepare for a crucial Nigeria Premier Football League encounter against Wikki Tourists, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The People’s Elephant currently sits 15th on the league table, just two points above the relegation zone, making today’s fixture a must-win in their fight for survival.

Speaking to the club’s official website, Ezekiel stressed the importance of belief and consistency, stating that the team must focus on winning their remaining home matches while picking up valuable points on the road.

“Obviously, what we need now as a club is to believe; we have to believe that we will get out of the drop zone,” he said.

The midfielder also highlighted the stature of Enyimba in Nigerian football, insisting their current position does not reflect the club’s pedigree.

“Enyimba is inarguably the biggest team in Nigeria. So, to think that we will occupy our current position is weird. But I personally believe, and I am confident we’ll escape the drop,” he added.

Ezekiel further called on supporters to continue backing the team during this difficult period, expressing optimism that the nine-time champions will secure their top-flight status by the end of the season.

The Nigeria Premier Football League has issued a formal warning to Niger Tornadoes FC following repeated concerns over crowd control and security breaches at the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The league’s decision comes after receiving multiple complaints from rival clubs and independent observers, highlighting incidents where supporters and unauthorized individuals gained access to restricted areas, disrupted match proceedings, and compromised safety standards.

In response, the NPFL has directed the club to implement immediate corrective measures to restore order and ensure compliance with league regulations. These include restricting access to only accredited personnel in sensitive areas such as technical zones, pitch side, and dressing rooms, as well as deploying adequate security before, during, and after matches.

The Minna-based side has also been instructed to maintain proper control of supporters at all times to prevent any form of disruption or violence.

The NPFL further warned that any recurrence of unauthorized access, encroachment, intimidation, or security breaches at the stadium will result in severe sanctions.

The move forms part of the league’s broader efforts to enhance safety, professionalism, and discipline across all match venues in the Nigerian top flight.

Doma United FC of Gombe have sealed promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), becoming the first club to confirm their return to the top flight from the Nigeria National League (NNL) this season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The achievement marks a remarkable turnaround for the club, who were relegated two seasons ago but have since mounted a strong push to regain elite status. Competing in Conference C, Doma United finished top with 26 points from 13 matches, boasting a solid defensive record that saw them concede just eight goals while scoring 17.

Their impressive home form played a key role in the campaign, with seven victories recorded on their own ground. Away from home, they secured one win and two draws, alongside three defeats that did little to derail their promotion charge.

This will be Doma United’s second spell in the NPFL, highlighting a swift recovery from their relegation in the 2023/24 season. In contrast, city rivals Gombe United, who dropped alongside them, are yet to secure a return to the top division.

Elsewhere in the NNL promotion race, Ranchers Bees topped Conference D with 20 points from 11 matches to seal promotion, while Beyond Limits finished first in Conference A with 25 points. Akwa United also emerged as leaders of Conference B with 28 points to confirm their place in the NPFL.

Meanwhile, Sporting Supreme’s withdrawal from the league added an unexpected twist to the season’s competition.

Nasarawa United F.C. delivered a dominant display to defeat Rivers United F.C. 4–1 in a rescheduled NPFL Matchday 31 clash at Lafia City Stadium, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

The hosts made a flying start, with Ngei Oluka-Efor opening the scoring in the third minute before Abubakar Abdullahi doubled the lead just moments later. Chimezie Victor added a third in the 15th minute to cap a blistering opening spell.

Rivers United responded through Taiwo Abdulrafiu, who converted a free-kick in the 24th minute, but Jofrank Istifanus sealed the win with a composed finish in the second half.

The victory, Nasarawa United’s biggest of the season, lifts them to third place on the NPFL table with 50 points, closing the gap on both Rivers United and leaders Enugu Rangers.

Following the win, Governor Abdullahi Sule rewarded the team with ?1 million per goal, totaling ?4 million, while additional financial support had earlier been provided to boost morale.

Head coach Mangut Mbwas praised his side’s clinical performance, stating the team could have scored more, as players expressed confidence ahead of the season’s final stretch.

Matchday 31 of the Nigeria Premier Football League continued on Sunday with several decisive fixtures across the country, as home sides recorded important victories, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

At the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Shooting Stars SC put up a spirited display but were left disappointed after conceding in the 65th minute, with Elijah’s strike proving enough to hand the hosts a narrow win.

In Ikenne, Remo Stars F.C. impressed with a 3–1 victory over Kwara United FC Ibrahim Yahaya opened the scoring in the 34th minute before Ahmed Akinyele doubled the lead shortly after. Kwara United responded through Hadi Haruna in the 70th minute, but Victor Mbaoma sealed the win just three minutes later.

Rangers International F.C. also recorded a comfortable 2–0 victory against El-Kanemi Warriors F.C., with Godwin Obaje scoring both goals in a dominant performance.

At the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano Pillars F.C. secured a 2–0 win over Enyimba International F.C. Chidozie Okorie gave the hosts an early lead, while Ahmed Musa added the second late in the game.

One of the most entertaining matches saw Kun Khalifat FC and Ikorodu City F.C. play out a 2–2 draw. Joseph Arumala equalised for Ikorodu City before Temitope Folarin put them ahead, but Uchechukwu Onuoha rescued a point for the hosts with a stoppage-time goal.

Plateau United F.C. edged Bayelsa United F.C. 1–0 thanks to Farouk Umar’s strike, while Warri Wolves FC were held to a goalless draw by Bendel Insurance F.C. in Ozoro.

The latest round of results further intensifies the battle across the league table, with clubs pushing hard for continental qualification spots and survival as the season approaches its decisive phase.

Technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu has expressed confidence in Rangers International F.C.’s ability to challenge for the Nigeria Premier Football League title, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Flying Antelopes currently sit second on the table, just one point behind leaders Rivers United F.C., with eight matches remaining in the season.

Rangers have the chance to go top with a victory over El-Kanemi Warriors F.C. at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, while Rivers United will face Nasarawa United F.C. in Lafia.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Ilechukwu insisted his side are not under pressure and will approach the title race one game at a time.

“There is no different message, we don’t want to be under pressure because of the league. We take it one game after the other,” he said.

The coach added that his players possess the mentality and quality required to go all the way.

“They understand what it takes to win. They have the attitude, the capacity, the character, and they understand what we want. To me, we are always ready.”

Despite backing his team, Ilechukwu acknowledged the strength of Rivers United, maintaining that the title race remains wide open as the season enters its decisive stage.

“They are the strongest team, but you never can tell what will happen. We are also strong. In the remaining games, we will fight more and stay at the top of our game but without pressure,” he added.

Enyimba International F.C. have announced that supporters will enjoy free entry when they host Plateau United F.C. in their Nigeria Premier Football League fixture on Sunday in Aba, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The match will take place at the Enyimba International Stadium with kickoff scheduled for 4:00 pm on March 15, 2026.

The decision to throw the gates open follows a period in which Enyimba played their last three home matches behind closed doors due to disciplinary sanctions imposed on the club.

The nine-time Nigerian champions are keen to reconnect with their supporters as they continue their push to remain competitive in the NPFL this season.

Club officials have therefore called on fans to turn out in large numbers to support the team and create a vibrant atmosphere inside the stadium.

Enyimba, popularly known as the Aba Elephants, will be hoping the return of their supporters provides the boost needed to secure a positive result against Plateau United.

Action resumed on Matchday 30 of the Nigeria Premier Football League as Bendel Insurance F.C. secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Kun Khalifat F.C. at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The hosts made a bright start to the encounter and took the lead as early as the fifth minute through Emmanuel Akpan, who finished calmly to hand Bendel Insurance an early advantage.

Insurance maintained its attacking momentum and doubled its lead before halftime when Kayode Oke found the back of the net in the 41st minute, putting the home side firmly in control heading into the break.

Kun Khalifat responded after the restart and reduced the deficit in the 52nd minute through Lekan Gabriel, setting up a tense finish to the contest.

Despite late pressure from the visitors, Bendel Insurance held their ground to secure all three points in front of their home supporters.

The victory provides a timely boost for Bendel Insurance as the league campaign approaches its decisive stages.

Former Enyimba FC, Julius Berger FC, FC Ifeanyi Ubah, Heartland FC, and Dolphins FC goalkeeper Chijioke Ejiogu has made a sensational return to the Nigeria Premier Football League nearly eight years after retirement following his move to Kun Khalifat FC, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Popularly known as “Arugo Monkey,” the 41-year-old last featured in the domestic top flight during the 2018 season when he played for Heartland.

Ejiogu, who first burst onto the scene in 1999 with FC Arugo Owerri — a side assembled by the late Uche Ejimofor, the first General Manager of Iwuanyanwu Nationale — delivered an outstanding performance in his debut appearance for Kun Khalifat on Sunday against Bayelsa United.

The veteran goalkeeper produced a string of crucial saves to help his side secure a narrow 1–0 victory, with Uchechukwu Onuoha scoring the decisive goal in the 45th minute.

Bayelsa United pushed hard in search of an equaliser, but Ejiogu repeatedly denied their attackers with a series of impressive stops throughout the match.

One of Nigeria’s most decorated domestic players, Ejiogu boasts seven Nigerian FA Cup titles across four clubs — Julius Berger (2002), Dolphins (2004, 2006, 2007), Enyimba (2009, 2014), and Heartland (2012).

He also won three NPFL titles with Dolphins (2004) and Enyimba (2009, 2015), as well as two Super Cup trophies with Julius Berger (2004) and Enyimba (2010).

“I’m happy with our win today and of course with my performance, which the fans are happy about,” Ejiogu told Completesports.com after the game.

“I’m even happier that we won the game. Hopefully we’ll talk tomorrow,” he added.

Former Nigeria national football team captain Ahmed Musa scored the decisive goal as Kano Pillars secured a narrow 1–0 victory over local rivals Barau FC in their Nigeria Premier Football League clash at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Musa found the breakthrough three minutes before the hour mark, converting a key chance to hand the home side all three points in a tightly contested encounter.

The result lifts Kano Pillars to 15th place in the NPFL standings with 35 points from 29 matches, providing a timely boost as the club looks to move further away from the lower half of the table.

League leaders Rivers United strengthened their grip at the top with a 3–1 victory over Bendel Insurance at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt.

After a goalless first half, Rivers United dominated the second period with goals from Chijioke Mbaoma, Wisdom Samuel, and Samson Obi sealing the win. The Port Harcourt side now has 52 points from 27 matches.

Elsewhere, defending champions Remo Stars suffered a heavy 4–1 defeat against Rangers International in Enugu. Kenneth Igboke scored twice for Rangers, while Chidozie Iwundu and Wisdom Ebirim added further goals. Remo Stars’ consolation came through Franck Kingue.

Other NPFL results over the weekend saw Plateau United defeat Niger Tornadoes 3–0, while Abia Warriors recorded a 2–0 win against Shooting Stars SC.

Warri Wolves edged Enyimba FC 2–1, Katsina United fell 2–1 at home to Kwara United, while Nasarawa United claimed a 1–0 victory over Ikorodu City.

Kun Khalifat FC also recorded a narrow 1–0 win against Bayelsa United.

Rivers United F.C. moved to the summit of the Nigeria Premier Football League table following a convincing 3-0 victory over El Kanemi Warriors F.C. on Wednesday, Nigeriasoccernet.com can report.

Rivers United asserted their dominance early in the encounter, with Wisdom Samuel opening the scoring in the 10th minute to hand the hosts a deserved lead. The early breakthrough set the tone for a commanding performance from the Pride of Rivers, who controlled proceedings for large spells of the contest.

After sustained pressure in the second half, Chijioke Mbaoma doubled the advantage from the penalty spot in the 72nd minute, calmly converting to effectively put the game beyond the reach of the visitors.

Samuel then completed the emphatic victory deep into stoppage time, grabbing his second goal of the night in the 90+3rd minute to seal the rout and underline Rivers United’s superiority on the evening.

The win moves Rivers United to 49 points from 26 matches, sending them to the top of the Nigeria Premier Football League standings. Notably, the Port Harcourt side still has two outstanding fixtures to play, a situation that could further strengthen their title challenge as the season approaches its decisive phase.

Head coach Finidi George has insisted that Rivers United remain firmly on course for the Nigeria Premier Football League title despite their latest setback against Bayelsa United, Nigeriasoccernet.com understands.

The Pride of Rivers suffered a narrow defeat on Sunday, but the former Super Eagles winger was quick to downplay the result, stressing that the club’s ultimate objective this season is to secure the league crown.

“If losing to Bayelsa United will give us the league title, I’ll accept it,” Finidi said rhetorically.

“Let’s lose to Bayelsa United and win the league.

“I’m not that worried about losing to Bayelsa United twice last season and twice this season.

“We know the purpose of our campaign this season is to win the league. It’s quite unfortunate that we lost today.”

Despite the disappointment, Rivers United remains in strong contention for a place near the summit of the NPFL standings. Finidi emphasised that sustained consistency across the entire campaign, rather than the outcome of isolated fixtures, will ultimately determine who lifts the trophy at the end of the season.

Matchday 28 of the Nigeria Premier Football League got underway on Saturday with home sides El Kanemi Warriors and Kwara United claiming vital victories in front of their fans, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

At the El-Kanemi Stadium in Maiduguri, the hosts produced a composed display to defeat Abia Warriors 2–0. Daddy Abdulrahman broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute, calmly converting from the penalty spot after the home side were awarded a spot-kick.

El Kanemi controlled proceedings for much of the contest and eventually put the result beyond doubt in the closing stages. Bashir Musa struck in the 86th minute to double the lead and secure maximum points for the Maiduguri-based side.

Elsewhere in Abeokuta, Wikki Tourists suffered a slim 1–0 loss to Kwara United. Akeem Akanni netted the decisive goal as early as the 15th minute, a strike that ultimately proved enough for the Harmony Boys to take all three points.

The remaining Matchday 28 fixtures are set to be concluded on Sunday and Monday as teams continue their push for crucial points in the closing stretch of the season.

The management of Remo Stars have officially announced the appointment of Usman Abdallah as the club’s new Technical Adviser, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The confirmation was made in a statement released on Thursday afternoon, with the club expressing optimism about the new direction. “We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Usman Abd’Allah as the new Technical Adviser of the club. The appointment takes immediate effect and represents a major step in the club’s strategic drive to enhance performance and achieve greater success,” the statement read.

The Sky Blue Boys are currently battling in the relegation zone of the Nigeria Premier Football League, a situation that has heightened the urgency for change.

Abdallah’s arrival is widely seen as a decisive move aimed at stabilising the team’s fortunes and reigniting their survival hopes as the season progresses.

Matchday 26 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) produced goals and high drama across various centres on Sunday, with Plateau United recording the most emphatic victory of the round after a commanding 4–1 win over Shooting Stars in Jos.

Shooting Stars took an early lead through Qamar Adegoke in the 12th minute, but the hosts responded almost immediately as Tarabina Biweribo equalised just two minutes later. Harrison Ebah then put Plateau United ahead in the 25th minute before Vincent Temitope extended the advantage from the penalty spot in the 55th minute. Alao Danbani capped a dominant display with a fourth goal in the 65th minute.

At the Bwari Township Stadium, Kun Khalifat secured a comfortable 2–0 victory over Niger Tornadoes. Adamu Mohammed opened the scoring in the 26th minute, while Oghenetega Ebetomame added a second deep into first-half stoppage time.

In Lafia, Nasarawa United edged Bendel Insurance 1–0 thanks to John Joshua’s 41st-minute strike in a tightly contested encounter.

Former champions Kano Pillars were in dominant form at home, brushing aside El-Kanemi Warriors 3–0. Veteran Rabiu Ali set the tone with an early goal in the 13th minute, Luis Dadong doubled the lead before halftime, and Chiedozie Okorie sealed the win seven minutes into the second half.

In Port Harcourt, Rivers United were held to a 1–1 draw by Enyimba. Abiodun Joseph handed the visitors the lead in the 28th minute, but Aniekeme Okon restored parity for the hosts just before the break.

Newcomers Ikorodu City also shared the spoils in a 1–1 draw with Bayelsa United. Ettah Ikoi put Bayelsa ahead in the 35th minute before Olanrewaju Molade equalised in the 64th minute.

Meanwhile, Katsina United and Rangers settled for a goalless draw in a cagey contest.

With results tightening both the race for continental qualification and the battle for survival, the NPFL season continues to gather intensity as it approaches its decisive stretch.

Ikorodu City stunned Enyimba 1–0 in their Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, matchday 26 clash in Aba on Sunday to climb to the top of the table, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Joseph Arumala scored the decisive goal one minute before the half-hour mark, silencing the home crowd at the Enyimba International Stadium. The hard-fought victory propelled Ikorodu City to the summit with 44 points, underlining their impressive campaign so far.

Rangers moved into second position following a commanding 2–0 win over Wikki Tourists at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu. Wisdom Ebirim opened the scoring in the 18th minute, while Godwin Obaje doubled the advantage three minutes after the half-hour mark to seal maximum points for the Flying Antelopes.

Defending champions Remo Stars were held to a 1–1 draw at home by Abia Warriors. Chukwuemeka Obioma gave the visitors the lead in the 54th minute before Samson Olasupo restored parity for the hosts 12 minutes from time.

At the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina United edged Nasarawa United 1–0 courtesy of Boubacar Massaly’s late strike nine minutes from time.

Bayelsa United and Bendel Insurance settled for a goalless draw at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa, while Kano Pillars earned a 1–1 draw away to Kwara United in Ilorin. Johnmark Aule put the hosts ahead in the 10th minute, but Luis Dadong equalised for Pillars 11 minutes from time.

Shooting Stars claimed a thrilling 4–2 victory over Warri Wolves. Sodiq Ibrahim, Lucky Emmanuel, Desmond Ojietefian, and Stephen Amos were all on target for the Oluyole Warriors, while Peter Ita and Othuke Egbo scored for the visitors.

Elsewhere, El-Kanemi Warriors secured a narrow 1–0 win over Plateau United.

Full Results

Rangers 2–0 Wikki

Remo Stars 1–1 Abia Warriors

Kwara United 1–1 Kano Pillars

Shooting Stars 4–2 Warri Wolves

Enyimba 0–1 Ikorodu City

Bayelsa United 0–0 Bendel Insurance

Katsina United 1–0 Nasarawa United

El-Kanemi Warriors 1–0 Plateau United