The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has directed Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) to stop using the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, as their home ground for the remainder of the 2025/2026 season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The decision was communicated to the Oluyole Warriors after a league assessment found that the playing surface at the stadium had deteriorated badly and no longer meets the minimum standard required for top-flight matches. The NPFL cited concerns over player safety and the overall quality of games played on the pitch.

As a result, Shooting Stars have been instructed to immediately make arrangements for an alternative home venue for their remaining league fixtures. The NPFL has proposed two options to the club: the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta or a suitable stadium in Lagos.

The ruling is expected to trigger urgent logistical adjustments for the Ibadan-based side as they seek a new base to complete the current NPFL campaign.

Enyimba FC produced a disciplined and clinical performance to defeat Shooting Stars Sports Club 3–0 at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba, in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) 2025 encounter, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The People’s Elephant took control of the contest with a first-half breakthrough and showed defensive resilience before sealing the 3-0 victory with two well-taken goals late in the second half.

Chinedu Ufere, opened score on 17 minute when Samuel Nweke threaded a precise through ball into his path, as he made no mistake in an unmarked position, unleashing a powerful shot past Shooting Stars goalkeeper Ozovehe to give Enyimba the lead.

Shooting Stars attempted to respond, winning a series of free kicks and corners, but their efforts were either blocked by the Enyimba wall or wasted from promising positions.

The visitors were handed a golden opportunity to draw level four minutes after the restart when they were awarded a penalty. However, Gbolagade was denied by an excellent save from Anozie Henry, whose quick reactions preserved Enyimba’s lead.

Shooting Stars dominated possession for long spells in the second half, but Enyimba's substitutions midway through the half, introducing Eddidong Ezekiel, Henry Ndedi, and Christian Molokwu, proved decisive.

Against the run of play, Enyimba struck again in the 84th minute through a swift counterattack. Onyebuchi Nwaorisa released Eddidong Ezekiel, who beat his marker and calmly rounded the goalkeeper to double the home side’s advantage.

Deep into stoppage time, Enyimba capped a dominant finish with a third goal. Ezekiel turned provider this time, flicking the ball into the path of Chidera Michael, who tapped into an empty net to complete a convincing victory.

The win moves Enyimba FC to 8th position while 3SC drop 7th after 19 matches played.

Uche Dozie

Matchday 18 of the Nigeria Premier Football League delivered a blend of late drama, tight contests and statement victories as clubs battled for crucial points at both ends of the table, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

At Ilorin, Kwara United produced a solid second-half performance to secure a 2–0 win over Bayelsa United. Babatunde Bright broke the deadlock in the 54th minute before Ini Emmanuel sealed the victory 17 minutes later, strengthening the Harmony Boys’ home form.

There was nothing to separate Wikki Tourists and Kun Khalifat FC, who played out a goalless draw, with both sides cancelling each other out in a closely fought encounter.

In Enugu, Rangers International edged Ikorodu City FC 2–1 in a keenly contested match, maintaining their push for a strong finish in the second half of the season.

Godwin Obaje put the Flying Antelopes in front in the 35th minute before Chidiebere Nwobodo doubled the lead in the 76th minute

Rasheed Owolabi pulled one back for City at added time of the second half as the tie ended 2-1 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.

At the Lekan Salami Stadium, Shooting Stars (3SC) came from behind to defeat Niger Tornadoes 2–1.

Gbolagade Adelowo equalised from the penalty spot just before half-time, while Promise Awosanmi struck the winner in the 66th minute.

Tornadoes thought they had rescued a point when Kufre Ebong scored in added time, but the goal proved only a late consolation.

Kano Pillars thrilled their home fans with a 2–1 victory over Plateau United. After Wisdom Ndon had put the visitors ahead early, Mustapha Jibrin levelled on the stroke of half-time before captain Ahmed Musa completed the turnaround shortly after the restart.

One of the standout games of the weekend took place in Maiduguri, where El-Kanemi Warriors claimed a dramatic 3–2 win over Enyimba FC.

Daddy Abdulrahman opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 28th minute before Jonas Emmanuel doubled the hosts' lead on 36 minutes.

Mohammed Hussaini reduced the deficit for Enyimba on 43 minutes to give the People's Elephant a lifeline ahead of the second half.

However, Emmanuel increased the deficit with his second goal of the game on 54 minutes. Onyebuchi Nwaorisa, in the 76th minute, pulled one back, but it only proved a consolation for the visitors.

Late drama also unfolded in Umuahia as Abia Warriors snatched a 1–0 victory over Wolves FC. Sunday Megwo converted a penalty deep into stoppage time (90+6’) to hand the hosts all three points in the dying moments of the game.

Uche Dozie 

Newly promoted sides, Warri Wolves and Kun Khalifat enjoined away victories whole Shooting Stars continued their fine form in the Nigeria Premier Football League match day 9 installments, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

It was sweet victory for Delta State side, Warri Wolves following their 1-2 win over multiple champions, Enyimba at the Enyimba Stadium.

Mohammed Hussaini 's own goal after 18 minutes broke the deadlock of the Seasiders before Edidiong Ezekiel brought the game to equilibrium.

Tejiri Emonena however score on 67 minutes to give the visitors a vital win over the league giants.

The Pride of Imo, Kun Khalifat smarting from a 1-0 win to Enyimba last week continued on a winning note to beat former FA Cup winners, Bayelsa United 1-2 at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenegao.

Uche Moses had put the visitors ahead nine minutes into the second half before Jawad Mustapha restored parity for the hosts on the 62nd minutes  from the spot.

With thirteen minutes left to the final whistle Olubode Hassan scored what proved to be the winner.

In Kano, it was another win for the newbies as Barau FC cake from behind to edge their senior brothers, Kano Pillars 2-1 in the Dabo derby at the Sani Abacha Stadium.

After captain Rabiu Aliyu had put Pillars ahead in the twentieth minute, but their was an impressive surge from the Ma Boys  Yahaya Ibrahim in the 50th minutes and Stanley Oganbor in the 76th minutes changed their fortunes.

Shooting Stars Sports Club continued their impressive form in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with a dominant 2–0 victory over Abia Warriors at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, extending their unbeaten streak to five matches.

Goals from Ayobami Junior in the 20th minutes and an 86th minute strike from substitute Qamar Adegoke sealed the deal for the Oluyole Warriors.

Uche Dozie

The management of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has expressed deep concern following reports and viral videos showing fans invading the pitch after the Matchday 8 fixture between Kano Pillars and Shooting Stars on Sunday evening, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com can report.

In an official statement signed by Davidson Owumi, the league’s Chief Operating Officer (COO), the NPFL condemned the unruly scenes in strong terms, describing them as completely unacceptable in modern football.

“We condemn in the strongest terms any act of violence, intimidation, or misconduct directed at players, match officials, or fans,” Owumi said.

He noted that the league body is currently awaiting official match reports and full video evidence from the Match Commissioner and Referees to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Owumi assured that the NPFL is treating the situation with utmost seriousness and pledged that appropriate disciplinary actions would follow after a thorough review.

“This isolated incident is being handled with the gravity it deserves, and the necessary sanctions will be applied once the reports are reviewed,” the statement added.

The NPFL also confirmed that it has been in constant communication with the match officials and the Shooting Stars delegation to ensure their safety following the chaotic scenes.

Owumi reaffirmed the league’s commitment to upholding professionalism and maintaining a safe environment for all participants and supporters.

“We reaffirm our commitment to maintaining discipline, safety, and professionalism at all league venues across the country,” he concluded.

The league management’s swift response highlights its zero-tolerance policy toward crowd violence as it continues efforts to enhance the image and integrity of the NPFL.

The management of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) stated that it has monitored and noted with concern the disturbing reports and viral video clips from Sunday evening’s NPFL Matchday 8 between Kano Pillars and Shooting Stars, which indicated that fans invaded the pitch shortly after the final whistle.

The statement signed by Davidson Owumi, the Chief Operating Officer, assured that while the league awaits the official match reports and complete video evidence from the Match Commissioner and Referees, "we condemn in the strongest terms any act of violence, intimidation, or misconduct directed at players, match officials, or fans".

The League is also assuring all stakeholders and football lovers that this isolated incident is being treated with utmost seriousness, and appropriate actions will follow upon review of the full reports.

He further stated that the NPFL has remained in touch with the Match Commissioner, the Referees, and officials of Shooting Stars, whose safety has been secured.

"We reaffirm our commitment to maintaining discipline, safety, and professionalism at all league venues across the country", Owumi concluded.

Reigning champions, Remo Stars, have gone top of the league, Rangers International and Kwara United recorded their win, as Plateau United continue to struggle, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports

The Sky Blue Stars ended the unbeaten run of Nigeria National League champions Warri Wolves after a 1-0 win at the MKO Abiola Sport Arena, Abeokuta, following Samson Olasupo's 77-minute goal.

Remo Stars now have seven points after three matches played and go top of the log with better goal difference than Wikki Tourist.

It was another unbeaten streak that ended as Niger Tornadoes defeated Bayelsa United 1-0 courtesy of Ismail Sarki's goal in 27 minutes of the game played at the Bako Kontagora Stadium, Minna.

Wikki Tourist remained unbeaten and stayed top of the log with a slim win over Abia Warriors courtesy of a goal by  Jonathan Mairiga in 77 minutes.

Rangers International recorded their first win of the season after beating struggling Plateau United 2-0 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.

Goals from Chidozie Iwundu on 45 minutes and Chidiebere Nwobodo on 80 minutes were enough to give the Flying Antelopes the win, leaving the Peace Boys winless since the start of the league.

Kwara United also celebrated their first win after defeating new boys, Kun Khalifat FC 2-0 at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl, George Inih Stadium, Ilorin.

Goals from Johnmark Shirsha on 24 minutes and Emeka Kingsley Obiorah on 81 minutes ensured maximum points for the Harmony Boys.

Multiple champions, Enyimba FC, played a disappointing goalless draw against Nasarawa United at home, while former champions, Rivers United and El Kanemi Warriors, encountered in Maiduguri ended goalless.

The topsy-turvy run of Shooting Stars Sports Club continued as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Ikorodu City at home in the South West derby clash on Sunday.

Sodiq Ibrahim found the net in the 9th minute to give the Oluyole Warriors an early lead, but they were pegged back after Shola Adelani, with a timely touch to bring the Oga Boys level at the stroke of half-time.

Uche Dozie

The Oluyole Warriors played a 1-1 draw against the Benin Arsenals at the Sam Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, after a matchday 1 loss against Bayelsa United in Ibadan.

It took the visiting side five minutes into the action to break the deadlock after Ayodele Ismail put 3SC ahead. He stole in behind his marker to pass the ball beyond Insurance goalkeeper Baba.

The home side were back in the game a few minutes later when Alex Oweilayefa headed past 3SC goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal on 12 minutes to level the score.

The first half ended 1-1 with both sides going at each other at intervals for the edge.

The end-to-end continued in the second half, but it was the home side that almost got the win in the 89th minute as Mustapha Lawal made a crucial save to keep the score level till full time.

Uche Dozie

New comers Barau FC and Kun Khalifat FC started their debut season of the Nigeria Premier Football League with a draw against former champions Enyimba FC and Rangers International while Bayelsa United secured away points against Shooting Stars Sports Club, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

In Kano, Barau FC held nine-time champions, Enyimba 0-0 at the Sani Abacha Stadium while Kun Khalifat FC held seven-time champions, Rangers International to a goalless draw at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in the oriental derby.

In an end to end encounter, the Maliya Boys held their own against the Aba giants causing problems while going forward and defending resolutely to keep Enyimba at bay.

The momentum achieved in the second half saw the visitors reduced to a man after Mujeeb Odufeso's reckless tackle on 87 minutes as Enyimba survived last minutes scare to get the draw.

Kehinde Malik got on the end of the corner kick crossed in by Nneoyi Ofem in the 30th minutes to give Bayelsa United a slim win over Shooting Stars Sports Club in Ibadan.

Another away win was recorded at Muhammadu Dikko Stadium as Warri Wolves defeated Katsina United 0-1 courtesy of a 76th minutes goal by Igbunu Evwierhurhona.

Uche Dozie

Aweroro, who leaves Ikorodu City on mutual consent, joins the Oluyole Warriors after a successful season, finishing fourth in the league and last four in the President's Federation Cup.

He is a CAF-licensed tactician with experience from Remo Stars, MFM FC, and Ikorodu City.

He replaces Coach Gbenga Ogunbote, who was sacked after the conclusion of the 2024/2025 season.

Uche Dozie

https://twitter.com/ShootingSc/status/1949168767000531147?t=ENVZWXF7KvcdEP3C1cxFIw&s=19

His announcement comes as the Ibadan-based club continues its rebuilding process following the appointment of a former Ikorodu City Coach, Nurudeen Aweroro, as the new Technical Adviser.

Adepoju, who announced his resignation as the director of Ikorodu City Football Club on Friday, was appointed on Saturday.

He returns home to his state club to bring back the glory of the club ahead of the new NPFL season.

Uche Dozie 

Power Dynamos in Zambia have signed Nigerian centre-back Samuel Ayodeji Bamidele from Shooting Stars SC, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Bamidele, a free agent after leaving Shooting Stars at the end of the Nigeria Premier Football League season joins on a two-year deal.

The 26-year-old who was also on the radar of NPFL champions, Remo Stars had been in contract talks with the Zambian champions since June.

The former Kwara United defender was nearing a move to ZESCO United in the Zambian Premier League, with talks at an advanced stage but the deal fell through.

He joins other signings for Dynamos like Moses Shumah; A striker from Kakamega Homeboyz in Kenya, Innocent Kashita; an attacking midfielder from Nkwazi FC and Daniel Adoko; A midfielder from NAPSA Stars.

Uche Dozie

Multiple reports suggest the board led by Mr. Olaniyan Akoro will no longer continue and will be replaced by Honourable Taiwo Lekan Salami as the club's new Chairman ahead of the new season.

Shooting Stars endured a tough 2024/25 season, slumping from a 2nd-placed league standing in January to finishing the season 8th.

The club was also disqualified from the President's Federations Cup due to fielding an ineligible player.

No official communication from the state house or a reason for that dissolution.

Uche Dozie

Remo Stars made a bold step to clinching their first Nigeria Premier Football League title with a rare away win in Ibadan on Sunday when they played Shooting Stars Sports, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The match day 34 encounter saw the Oluyole Warriors fall to a 0-1 loss to the Sky Blue Stars, extending the winless streak of the host to four matches.

After 30 minutes of action where the two sides looked to find their rhythm, it was the Ikenne-based club that drew the first blood.

Sodiq Ismail's cross was well headed into the net by Alex Oyowah after half an hour played at the Lekan Salami Stadium.

Oyowah could have gotten a second 13 minutes later after hitting a low shot, but his effort was saved by goalkeeper Abiodun Akande to keep the score 0-1 at halftime.

It was an end-to-end affair in the second 45 with the hosts pushing for an equaliser while the visitors searched for a goal to consolidate the tie.

Sikiru Alimi twice came close to doubling the lead after 75 minutes, but got his efforts saved by Akande.

With 5 minutes remaining to the end of the game, Obassa Adebiyi had to get to a deflected cross to keep the scoreline the same.

The Sky Blue Stars remained strong for the maximum points in Ibadan to remain top of the league standings with 65 points.

Uche Dozie

Bayelsa United took Shooting Stars Sports Club to the cleaners when the two sides met in an NPFL match day 33 fixture in Yenagao on Friday night, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Prosperity Boys put three past the Oluyole Warriors without reply at the Samson Siasia to continue their unbeaten run in seven matches.

The first goal came after 27 minutes Ifeanyi Ogba beautifully controlled Wisdom's well-weighted lofted ball and calmly slotted the ball in.

Wisdom Magbisa made it 2-0 four minutes to the end of halftime after he guided the ball through the legs of the Shooting Stars Goalkeeper following a fine assist by Rabiu Abdullahi.

Kehinde Malik rifled home the ball after getting on the end of a cross by Ifeanyi to make it three for Bayelsa United three minutes into the second half.

The result remained 3-0 at the end of the encounter as Bayelsa United moved into the top half of the standings.

Uche Dozie

After a goalless affair with Ikorodu City on Match Day 32 at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan on Sunday, reports emerged of the host fans who were angry over the result causing trouble.

The fans were said to have caused damage to the bus of the visiting team and to have behaved unruly leading to the league body setting up an investigative panel.

A statement released by the league body states that the disciplinary panel found the Oluyole Warriors guilty of three counts of charges.

"The Ibadan club was found guilty of all three counts for failure to provide adequate security, failure to ensure proper conduct of their supporters resulting in an attack on the opponents and throwing of objects to the field of play and the referees."

Consequently, they will pay 3 million for security breaches and another N 2 million to Ikorodu City for damages to their bus following attacks on the club’s traveling fans.

Besides, the 3SC fans have also been indefinitely banned from attending home games.

Shooting Stars, under Rule C26, is required to within 48 hours, indicate acceptance of the ruling or elect to appeal the decisions.

Uche Dozie

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Board has announced plans to launch an investigation into the chaos that marred the Matchday 32 fixture between Shooting Stars and Ikorodu City at the Lekan Salami Stadium, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.

In a statement issued by the league body, disturbing images and videos of the fracas have circulated widely on social media, prompting immediate concern from the NPFL leadership.

Chairman of the NPFL, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, confirmed that the Board will convene on Wednesday for a disciplinary hearing aimed at uncovering the facts and determining necessary sanctions.

“We are not unaware of the unacceptable occurrence and have scheduled a disciplinary meeting to determine appropriate measures to deter a recurrence,” Elegbeleye stated.

Reaffirming the NPFL's zero-tolerance stance on unsporting conduct, the chairman stressed that the Board remains committed to upholding professionalism and discipline across all league venues.

“The Board will consistently act to stamp out all forms of disreputable behaviours to keep the league free of unsporting engagement before, during and after league games,” he added.

The outcome of the hearing is expected to set a strong precedent as the league continues efforts to maintain order and integrity in Nigerian top-flight football.

Following the expulsion of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan from the 2025 President Federation Cup, Warri Wolves have secured a spot in the Round of 16 without playing, Nigeriasoccernet.com can confirm.

In a circular released by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Director of Competitions, Ruth David, the Round of 32 matches are set to take place on April 2, 2025, across selected venues in Abuja, Ayangba, Lafia, Ijebu Ode, Awka, and others.

Key Fixtures – Round of 32

? Awka Stadium (4:00 PM):
? Heartland FC ? Rangers International (Oriental Derby Showdown)

? Other Matches:

Abuja (Bwari): El-Kanemi Warriors ? Enyimba

Abuja (Area 3): Abakaliki FC ? Katsina United

Ayangba (Kogi): Nasarawa United ? Ijele FC

Kaduna: Bayelsa United ? FC Basira

Lafia: Wikki Tourists ? Rovers FC

Ijebu Ode: Ikorodu City FC ? Crown FC

Benin: Beyond Limits ? Rivers United

Ayangba (Kogi): Mighty Jets Feeders ? Akwa United

Ayangba (Kogi): Inter Lagos ? Jr. Danburam

Aba: Lobi Stars ? Solution FC

Lafia: Kwara United ? Gombe United

Ayangba (Kogi): Sunshine Stars ? Plateau United

Awka: Osun United ? E-World FC

Lafia: Bendel Insurance ? Adamawa United

With highly anticipated clashes, particularly the Heartland vs Rangers Oriental Derby, fans can expect thrilling encounters in the knockout stage of the competition.

The management of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) has confirmed the team’s expulsion from the 2025 President Federation Cup due to allegations of fielding ineligible players, Nigeriasoccerne.com can report.

According to a statement released by the club’s media officer, Tosin Omojola, the decision was communicated by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) shortly after 3SC walked over Zamfara United in the Round of 64 fixture in Abuja.

“Sequel to the letter, written by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), expelling us from this year's President Federation Cup on the ground that we fielded ‘ineligible’ players, the management of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) wishes to inform our teeming supporters and fans that we are taking steps to address the matter,” the statement read.

The club further revealed that internal and external investigations are underway to verify the claims, urging fans to remain calm and patient as they work towards a resolution.

“Having received the letter on Wednesday afternoon, moments after we walked over Zamfara United in a Round of 64 fixture in Abuja, we want to state that internal and external investigations have commenced on the issue.”

“While this is ongoing, we hereby appeal for calm and patience, knowing fully the tension the issue has generated, with a promise to make an official statement immediately after our findings are concluded.”

With this decision, 3SC is officially out of the 2025 President Federation Cup, and the club’s next course of action will depend on the outcome of their ongoing investigations.

Katsina United got an important win at home against Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan  courtesy of a late strike by Ahmed Taofeeq in their match day 28 fixture, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Shooting Stars Sports had effectively managed the game for almost entire duration of the game, but a late goal denied a point at the Muhammadu Diko Stadium.

A keenly contested encounter saw the sides with nothing to separate them after 45 minutes.

The second half took a higher tempo with the hosts piling the pressure for a goal, but the visitors remained the resolute.

However, when it seemed the points will be shared, Taofeeq with fine skill turn the defender to hit a low shot beyond the goalkepper after a fine team play some minutes into the seven added minutes after 90 minutes.

The win moves Katsina United to 13th position with 36 points pending the remaining matches to be played this weekend.

Uche Dozie