Nigeria Premier Football League heavyweights Enyimba International and Kano Pillars have reportedly identified Daniel Ogunmodede as their preferred candidate for their vacant head coach positions following his departure from Remo Stars, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Ogunmodede recently brought an end to his remarkable 13-year journey with the Ikenne-based club, where he rose through the coaching ranks and established himself as one of the most respected tacticians in Nigerian football.

The experienced coach enjoyed a historic spell at Remo Stars, culminating in the club's maiden Nigeria Premier Football League title, a landmark achievement that further enhanced his reputation as one of the country's finest coaches.

His success was built on years of consistent progress, having transformed Remo Stars into one of the most competitive teams in the domestic league through an attractive style of play and a strong emphasis on youth development.

With both Enyimba and Kano Pillars seeking new leadership on the bench ahead of the 2026/27 NPFL season, Ogunmodede has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate for both clubs.

Although neither Enyimba nor Kano Pillars has officially confirmed negotiations or announced an appointment, the former Remo Stars boss is believed to be high on the shortlist of both former league champions as they continue plans for the new campaign.

Ogunmodede's impressive record, tactical discipline, and proven ability to build competitive teams have made him one of the most sought-after coaches in the NPFL, and his next destination is expected to attract significant attention across the Nigerian football landscape.

With pre-season preparations gathering momentum, both clubs are expected to intensify their search for a new manager in the coming weeks, while Ogunmodede's future remains one of the major talking points ahead of the new NPFL season.

Sporting Lagos, Inter Lagos, Doma United, and Ranchers Bees have officially been inducted into the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) ahead of the 2026/27 campaign after participating in the league's orientation programme for newly promoted clubs, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The induction exercise, organised by the NPFL management, was designed to familiarise the quartet with the operational procedures, regulations, and expectations of Nigeria's top-flight league before the start of the new season.

During the orientation programme, officials from the four clubs were taken through key areas of club licensing requirements, league operations, administrative procedures, and other regulatory guidelines necessary for participation in the NPFL.

The exercise forms part of the league body's efforts to ensure that newly promoted clubs are fully equipped to meet the operational, financial, and organisational standards required in the country's elite division.

Sporting Lagos, Inter Lagos, Doma United, and Ranchers Bees secured promotion after impressive campaigns and will now be looking to establish themselves among Nigeria's top-flight clubs in the forthcoming season.

Meanwhile, preparations for the 2026/27 campaign will continue on Tuesday when representatives of all 20 clubs expected to participate in the new NPFL season are scheduled to meet with league organisers.

The meeting is expected to address key issues ahead of the new campaign, including operational guidelines, fixtures, club licensing compliance, and other administrative matters as the countdown to another exciting NPFL season gathers pace.

Former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa has stepped down from his role as Chairman of Kano Pillars, with Alhaji Ahmad Musbahu Garo appointed as his successor following a leadership reshuffle at the Nigeria Premier Football League club, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Musa, who was appointed to oversee the affairs of the Sai Masu Gida, will now concentrate fully on his playing career while continuing to serve the club in his capacity as ambassador.

The former Leicester City and CSKA Moscow forward remains an influential figure at Kano Pillars, with his experience and leadership expected to continue benefiting the club both on and off the pitch.

In his ambassadorial role, Musa will work to promote the club's image, strengthen its relationship with supporters, and contribute to its long-term development.

Meanwhile, the appointment of Alhaji Ahmad Musbahu Garo signals the beginning of a new era for Kano Pillars as preparations gather pace for the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League season.

The new chairman is expected to oversee the club's administrative and strategic affairs, while Musa continues to provide leadership within the squad as one of the team's most experienced players.

With changes taking place both on and off the field, Kano Pillars will be aiming to build a competitive squad capable of challenging for honours in the upcoming NPFL campaign.

Nigeria Premier Football League newcomers Ranchers Bees have confirmed the appointment of veteran tactician Usman Abdallah as their new head coach on a two-year contract, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The experienced coach joins the Kaduna-based club following his departure from former NPFL champions Remo Stars, bringing with him a wealth of managerial experience at the highest level of Nigerian football.

Abdallah has previously handled several top-flight clubs and is widely regarded as one of the most experienced coaches in the domestic game.

His appointment is viewed as a major statement of intent by Ranchers Bees as they prepare for their return to the Nigeria Premier Football League ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The club's management believes Abdallah's experience, tactical knowledge and understanding of the NPFL will be crucial as the team seeks to establish itself among the country's elite clubs.

For Abdallah, the move represents a fresh challenge and an opportunity to lead one of Nigeria's historic football clubs back to prominence.

With the appointment now confirmed, Ranchers Bees are expected to step up their pre-season activities as preparations gather momentum for the new campaign.

Doma United FC have confirmed the appointment of coach Deji Ayeni as their new Technical Adviser on a two-year deal ahead of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The NPFL newcomers announced the appointment as part of their preparations for life in the top flight following their promotion to the elite division. The club, nicknamed the Savannah Tigers, are aiming to strengthen their technical structure ahead of their maiden campaign at the highest level.

Ayeni brings extensive experience in Nigerian football, having previously managed several top-flight sides including Sunshine Stars, Akwa United, and Enyimba.

His tactical discipline and deep knowledge of the domestic league are expected to play a key role in Doma United’s ambition to establish themselves among Nigeria’s elite clubs.

Club management expressed confidence that the experienced tactician is the right figure to lead the team into a new era and build a competitive squad capable of competing in the NPFL.

Ayeni’s immediate responsibility will be to oversee pre-season preparations as the club begins planning for its historic first season in the Nigerian top flight.

Nigeria Premier Football League side Kano Pillars FC have confirmed the departure of eight players following the expiration of their contracts at the end of the 2025/26 season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The players leaving Sai Masu Gida are Muhammad Galadima, Ugochukwu Gabriel, Zahraddeen Bello, Williams Ayuba, Bernard Ovoke, Christian Izuchukwu, Sudais Ali Baba and Aliyu Yakubu.

In a statement released by the club, Kano Pillars expressed appreciation to the departing players for their dedication, professionalism and contributions during their time with the four-time NPFL champions.

The club acknowledged the role each player played in representing the team and thanked them for their commitment throughout their stay.

“Kano Pillars FC sincerely appreciates the commitment, professionalism, and contributions of the players during their time with the club,” the statement read.

The club also wished the players success in the next stage of their careers, stressing that they will always remain part of the Kano Pillars family.

Management, technical crew, staff and supporters joined in expressing gratitude to the outgoing players for their service to the club.

The departures mark the beginning of an expected squad overhaul as Kano Pillars intensify preparations for the 2026/27 campaign, with further additions and changes anticipated in the coming weeks.

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has scheduled a one-day orientation workshop for the four newly promoted clubs ahead of the 2026/27 season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

According to a letter signed by NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, the workshop will take place on Friday, June 26, 2026, and is designed to acquaint the clubs with the operational requirements and expectations of Nigeria's top-flight league.

The invitation was extended to newly promoted sides Sporting Lagos, Ranchers Bees, Inter Lagos and Doma United following their successful promotion to the elite division.

"We bring you compliments of the Board, Management and Staff of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), and wish to congratulate you on your promotion to the elite football league in Nigeria.

"Consequently, the management of the NPFL wishes to invite you to an interactive orientation and induction seminar, to enable us to educate and enlighten you on the demands and operational requirements of the NPFL," Owumi stated in the invitation letter.

The league body directed each club to be represented by two officials not below the ranks of Chairman and General Manager, while participants will also have the opportunity to seek clarification on issues relating to league operations.

The NPFL disclosed that representatives would receive copies of the league's frameworks and regulations, while key sessions will focus on club licensing requirements, financial management, infrastructure standards and administrative responsibilities.

"We will be providing them copies of the NPFL Frameworks and Rules as well as take them through Club Licensing Regulations implementation, especially in the areas of financial health to meet contractual terms with personnel, infrastructure and administration," the NPFL stated.

The orientation programme is expected to serve as the first in a series of activities lined up by the league organisers ahead of the commencement of the 2026/27 NPFL season, as preparations gather momentum for another competitive campaign.

Former Nigeria Premier Football League champions Enyimba and Remo Stars are among the Nigerian clubs expected to benefit from FIFA’s expanded $355 million Club Benefits Programme, which now includes payments for the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches for the first time.

FIFA confirmed on Friday that clubs worldwide will receive financial rewards for releasing players during the qualifying phase, marking a major expansion of its long-standing compensation scheme.

According to FIFA, a total of $100 million has been allocated specifically for the qualifying rounds, with each club set to earn approximately $2,360 per player per match.

A further $250 million will be distributed to clubs whose players feature at the final tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada, with payments calculated per player per day depending on squad involvement.

Remo Stars to Receive Over $35,000

Remo Stars are projected to earn about $35,400 (approximately ?48.14 million) after releasing four players during the qualifying campaign. Their released players included:

Adebiyi Obassa (Benin Republic) - 8 matches

Kayode Bankole - 2 matches

Sodiq Ismaila - 2 matches

Franck Mawuena (Togo) - 3 matches

Enyimba to Receive About $4,720

Enyimba, meanwhile, are expected to receive around $4,720 (approximately ?6.42 million) for releasing goalkeeper Olorunleke Ojo for two qualifying matches.

FIFA clarified that clubs will still qualify for payments even if released players did not feature in matchday action, as long as they were included in squad selections.

FIFA Explains Expansion

FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the increased funding as a direct result of the expanded World Cup format, which has created more matches and broader participation across global football.

He noted that the programme reflects recognition of clubs’ “essential contribution” to international football, with more teams than ever expected to benefit financially.

A Bigger Reward System for Global Football

The 2026 cycle marks the most lucrative Club Benefits Programme yet, with FIFA distributing funds across nearly 1,000 combined qualifying and tournament matches.

For Nigerian clubs like Enyimba and Remo Stars, the system provides additional financial recognition for their role in developing and releasing players for national duty — a long-standing issue in African club football.

Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State has announced a generous reward package for players and officials of Rangers International F.C. following the club’s successful 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League title-winning campaign, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Speaking during a reception organised in honour of the league champions, Governor Mbah approved a total cash reward of ?150 million for the club.

According to the governor, ?100 million will be shared among the players, while ?50 million has been allocated to members of the management team in recognition of their contributions to Rangers’ title-winning success.

Beyond the financial rewards, the Enugu State government also approved plots of land for all players and management staff, with each beneficiary set to receive a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O).

Governor Mbah further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development by announcing plans to upgrade the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium ahead of Rangers’ participation in next season’s CAF Champions League.

The planned renovations are also expected to prepare the stadium for the hosting of the Coal City Games 2026, Enugu State’s flagship sporting event.

The rewards package highlights the state government’s appreciation of Rangers’ achievement and its determination to strengthen the club’s competitiveness on the continental stage.

Popularly known as the Flying Antelopes, Rangers enjoyed a remarkable campaign, winning the NPFL title and securing qualification for the prestigious CAF Champions League.

The announcement has been widely welcomed by supporters and football stakeholders, who see the incentives as a strong commitment to sports development and professional football in Enugu State.

The league triumph further reinforces Rangers’ position as one of Nigeria’s most successful football clubs and adds another memorable chapter to the rich football heritage of the Coal City.

With a return to continental football on the horizon, Rangers will now look to build on their domestic success and make a strong impression against Africa’s top clubs in the CAF Champions League.

Enugu Rangers head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has said he will decide on his future at the club after returning from Super Eagles duty at the Unity Cup in London.

Ilechukwu recently guided Rangers to the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League title following a hard-fought 2-1 win over Ikorodu City in Lagos, securing the club’s ninth league crown and moving them level with Enyimba in the NPFL’s all-time honours list.

The coach, who has now won two league titles in three seasons with Rangers, confirmed that his contract has expired and admitted uncertainty over whether he will continue at the club beyond the current campaign.

According to him, discussions will be held with the club hierarchy after his return from international duty, as he weighs up his next career step following a successful but demanding spell in Enugu.

Rangers’ title success was sealed despite pressure from Rivers United, who finished just one point behind after a 3-0 win on the final day.

Remo Stars F.C. have vowed to bounce back immediately to the Nigeria Premier Football League after suffering relegation on the final day of the 2025/26 campaign, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Sky Blue Stars were held to a dramatic 1-1 draw by Bendel Insurance F.C. at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on Sunday.

Experienced forward Victor Mbaoma handed Remo Stars the lead just before halftime, but Chijioke Akuneto struck deep into stoppage time to rescue a point for Bendel Insurance.

The result confirmed Remo Stars’ relegation after the Ikenne-based club finished 17th on the table with 47 points from 38 matches.

It marked a stunning fall for the club, which only won its maiden NPFL title last season. Remo Stars have now become the fourth reigning league champions to be relegated while defending their crown, following the fate of Stationery Stores, Shooting Stars, and Bayelsa United.

El-Kanemi Warriors F.C., Bayelsa United F.C., and Wikki Tourists F.C. were the other clubs relegated at the end of the season.

Meanwhile, Sporting Lagos F.C., Inter Lagos FC, Doma United F.C., and Ranchers Bees F.C. secured promotion from the Nigeria National League.

In an official statement, Remo Stars admitted the club failed to maintain the level of consistency needed to survive in the top flight but assured supporters that efforts are already underway to secure a quick return.

“The outcome of the season is very disappointing for everybody connected to the club, supporters, players, staff, and management who have invested emotions into the journey,” the club stated.

“We didn’t deliver the performances and consistency required to maintain our place in the division.

“Important decisions will be made, and every effort will be directed towards returning the club to where it belongs.”

Rangers International secured their ninth Nigeria Premier Football League title after battling to a 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Sunday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Flying Antelopes, led by coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, started brightly and broke the deadlock in the 30th minute through Chidiebere Nwobodo.

Nwobodo completed his brace 10 minutes into the second half to hand Rangers firm control of the encounter before Moses Ali reduced the deficit for Ikorodu City in the 58th minute.

Despite late pressure from the hosts, Rangers held on to secure all three points and confirm their place as NPFL champions with 68 points from 38 matches.

Rivers United finished the season in second position after a dominant 3-0 victory against Katsina United in Port Harcourt.

Chijioke Mbaoma netted twice for Rivers United, while Aniekeme Okon added the third goal to complete an impressive performance for the Port Harcourt side.

Shooting Stars Sports Club claimed third place and a CAF Confederation Cup ticket despite suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Niger Tornadoes in Minna.

Abdulrasheed Shehu Dabai converted from the penalty spot four minutes before halftime to hand Tornadoes a crucial victory.

Elsewhere, Enyimba FC preserved their top-flight status with a convincing 3-0 home win over El-Kanemi Warriors.

Stanley Dimgba scored twice for the People’s Elephant before Uwana Asuquo added a late third goal. The defeat confirmed El-Kanemi Warriors’ relegation to the Nigeria National League.

Plateau United edged Kano Pillars 1-0 in Jos, with Victor Dawa scoring the winner deep into stoppage time.

At the Samson Siasia Stadium, Bayelsa United recorded the biggest victory of the final day after thrashing Kwara United 4-0.

Peter Ebimobiwei, Saro Loveday, Stephen Wisdom, and Nneoyi Ofem all found the net for the hosts.

In Kano, Barau FC defeated Nasarawa United 3-0 courtesy of goals from Joseph Atule, Sunday Anthony, and Adamu Hussein.

Final Matchday Results

Niger Tornadoes 1-0 Shooting Stars

Enyimba 3-0 El-Kanemi Warriors

Bayelsa United 4-0 Kwara United

Bendel Insurance 1-1 Remo Stars

Ikorodu City 1-2 Rangers

Rivers United 3-0 Katsina United

Warri Wolves 2-1 Abia Warriors

Plateau United 1-0 Kano Pillars

Barau FC 3-0 Nasarawa United

The Nigeria Football Federation Refereeing Development Committee has suspended referee Yakubu Adamu indefinitely from all league and football-related activities following his performance in the Nigeria Premier Football League clash between Rangers International F.C. and Bendel Insurance F.C., NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.

According to the committee, the sanction takes immediate effect after the referee awarded a penalty during the match, which was considered inconsistent with the provisions of the Laws of the Game.

The controversial decision resulted in a goal and was said to have significantly influenced the outcome of the encounter.

The committee further stated that the referee’s actions brought the game into disrepute, leading to the disciplinary action against the match official.

The NFF also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining professionalism, fairness, and integrity in football officiating across the country.

Matchday 37 of the Nigeria Premier Football League delivered another round of exciting fixtures on Sunday, with Kun Khalifat F.C. and Rivers United F.C. securing impressive away victories while Rangers International F.C. maintained their place at the top of the table, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

At the Umuahia Township Stadium, Kun Khalifa stunned Abia Warriors F.C. with a convincing 2-0 victory away from home.

Uchechukwu Onuoha emerged as the match winner for the visitors after scoring in the 3rd and 40th minutes to secure maximum points.

Rivers United also claimed a crucial away win after edging Wikki Tourists F.C. 3-2 in a thrilling encounter, strengthening their title ambitions as the campaign nears its conclusion.

In Ibadan, Shooting Stars Sports Club secured a slim 1-0 victory over Barau F.C. thanks to Lucky Emmanuel’s 41st-minute strike.

Nasarawa United F.C. also recorded a narrow 1-0 win against Plateau United F.C., with Jofrank Istifanus scoring the decisive goal in the 72nd minute.

Remo Stars F.C. fought back from a goal down to defeat Bayelsa United F.C. 2-1 in Ikenne.

Ofem Nneoyi had given Bayelsa United an early lead in the 5th minute before Alex Oyowah equalised just before halftime. Experienced striker Victor Mbaoma later netted the winning goal in the 64th minute.

Veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali converted a stoppage-time penalty to hand Kano Pillars F.C. a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Warri Wolves F.C..

League leaders Rangers International continued their impressive form with a 2-1 victory over Bendel Insurance F.C. to remain firmly on top of the standings.

Elsewhere, Kwara United F.C. defeated Enyimba International F.C. 2-0, El-Kanemi Warriors F.C. and Niger Tornadoes F.C. played out a goalless draw, while Katsina United F.C. thrashed Ikorodu City F.C. 4-1.

Full-Time Results

Shooting Stars 1-0 Barau FC

El-Kanemi Warriors 0-0 Niger Tornadoes

Kwara United 2-0 Enyimba

Remo Stars 2-1 Bayelsa United

Rangers International 2-1 Bendel Insurance

Katsina United 4-1 Ikorodu City

Wikki Tourists 2-3 Rivers United

Abia Warriors 0-2 Kun Khalifa

Kano Pillars 1-0 Warri Wolves

Nasarawa United 1-0 Plateau United

The 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League season is set for a thrilling conclusion on May 24, with the title race, continental qualification battle, and relegation fight all expected to go down to the final day, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

League leaders Rangers International F.C. face arguably the toughest assignment in the title race as they travel to Lagos to confront Ikorodu City F.C. The Flying Antelopes must secure victory to keep alive their hopes of clinching the NPFL crown.

Rivers United F.C., however, appears to hold the advantage heading into the final round of fixtures. The Port Harcourt side will host Katsina United F.C. in what is widely viewed as a favourable fixture as they aim to seal the league title.

Ikorodu City also has plenty to play for in Lagos. The newly promoted side must defeat Rangers and hope Niger Tornadoes F.C. overcomes Shooting Stars Sports Club in Minna to strengthen their chances of finishing in the top three and securing continental football.

For Shooting Stars, even a draw away to Niger Tornadoes could be enough to preserve their position, provided Ikorodu City fail to beat Rangers International.

At the bottom end of the table, Niger Tornadoes remain trapped in a tense survival battle and must defeat Shooting Stars to boost their chances of avoiding relegation while also relying on favourable results elsewhere.

The relegation fight remains extremely tight, with clubs from Kano Pillars F.C. in 10th position down to Niger Tornadoes in 18th still not mathematically safe heading into the final day.

Bayelsa United F.C. and Wikki Tourists F.C. are the only two clubs already confirmed to be relegated.

Elsewhere, Nasarawa United F.C., Bendel Insurance F.C., and Katsina United head into the final round with little left to play for after securing safety while remaining out of contention for both the title and continental qualification places. Barau F.C. also appears close to guaranteeing survival.

Matchday 38 Fixtures – May 24, 2026

Niger Tornadoes vs Shooting Stars

Enyimba International F.C. vs El-Kanemi Warriors F.C.

Bayelsa United vs Kwara United F.C.

Bendel Insurance vs Remo Stars F.C.

Ikorodu City vs Rangers International

Rivers United vs Katsina United

Kun Khalifat F.C. vs Wikki Tourists

Warri Wolves F.C. vs Abia Warriors F.C.

Plateau United F.C. vs Kano Pillars

Barau FC vs Nasarawa United

Bayelsa United F.C. and Wikki Tourists F.C. have been relegated from the Nigeria Premier Football League following defeats in their Matchday 37 fixtures, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Bayelsa United suffered a 2-1 defeat to Remo Stars F.C. in Ikenne, while Wikki Tourist lost 3-2 at home to Rivers United F.C. after conceding two late goals.

Bayelsa United started brightly against Remo Stars and took the lead in the fifth minute through Ofem Nneoyi, who capitalised on a defensive mistake and the hosts’ high line before calmly slotting past the goalkeeper.

Remo Stars responded strongly and equalised four minutes before halftime when Alex Oyowah headed home from a well-delivered free kick. The comeback was completed in the 64th minute as experienced striker Victor Mbaoma swept the ball into the net for his 13th league goal of the season.

The defeat leaves Bayelsa United on 40 points, six points away from safety with only one game remaining, confirming the end of the Yenagoa club’s four-year stay in the NPFL.

Wikki Tourist also had their relegation confirmed despite taking the lead early in the second half through Imanu Bala. Rivers United, however, staged a dramatic late comeback to secure maximum points and send the Bauchi-based side back to the Nigeria National League after only one season in the top flight.

The victory kept Rivers United’s title hopes alive. Managed by Finidi George, the Port Harcourt side remains one point behind league leaders Rangers International F.C., who secured a 2-1 win over Bendel Insurance F.C. at the Cathedral Stadium.

With one round of fixtures remaining, the NPFL title race will now be decided on the final day of the season.

At the bottom of the table, Bayelsa United and Wikki Tourist remain on 40 points, while clubs including Abia Warriors F.C., Kwara United F.C., Enyimba International F.C., Warri Wolves F.C., Remo Stars, Kun Khalifat F.C., and Niger Tornadoes F.C. have moved clear of the relegation zone.

Matchday 37 Results

Shooting Stars Sports Club 1-0 Barau F.C.

El-Kanemi Warriors F.C. 0-0 Niger Tornadoes

Kwara United 2-0 Enyimba

Remo Stars 2-1 Bayelsa United

Rangers International 2-1 Bendel Insurance

Katsina United F.C. 4-1 Ikorodu City F.C.

Wikki Tourist 2-3 Rivers United

Abia Warriors 0-2 Kun Khalifat

Kano Pillars F.C. 1-0 Warri Wolves

Nasarawa United F.C. 1-0 Plateau United F.C.

Warri Wolves F.C. have been hit with heavy sanctions by the Nigeria Premier Football League following breaches recorded during their Matchday 36 fixture against Plateau United F.C., Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

According to the league body, the club failed to provide adequate security at the venue, allowing unauthorised individuals access to restricted areas of the stadium. Supporters were also found guilty of engaging in unsporting conduct capable of bringing the game into disrepute.

In addition, fans were accused of gross misconduct towards match officials, an incident that reportedly caused a 10-minute delay during the encounter.

As a result, Warri Wolves have been fined a total of ?6 million. This includes ?2 million for inadequate security, ?1 million for supporters’ unsporting behaviour, and ?3 million for misconduct directed at match officials.

The league body has also ordered the club to play its remaining home fixtures behind closed doors, further compounding the disciplinary measures.

Beyond the financial penalties, Warri Wolves have been instructed to identify and prosecute those responsible for the incidents and provide evidence of such actions to the NPFL.

The club has been given 48 hours to appeal the sanctions.

Eric Chelle continued his nationwide scouting tour with a high-profile appearance at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, where Ikorodu City F.C. secured a 3–1 victory over Wikki Tourists F.C. in a Nigeria Premier Football League fixture, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Super Eagles boss was warmly received by the home club’s management and presented with a symbolic No. 10 jersey before kickoff, acknowledging his presence at the encounter.

Chelle’s visit forms part of his ongoing effort to assess domestic talent, as he looks to identify players capable of strengthening the national team ahead of upcoming international engagements, including a four-nation tournament in London.

The Franco-Malian tactician has maintained a strong presence across Nigerian football venues in recent days. He was in attendance at the NNL Super Four tournament opener held at the Remo Stars Stadium, and also visited the Lekan Salami Stadium during an NPFL clash between Shooting Stars and Nasarawa United.

Ikorodu City later confirmed his presence via their official platforms, highlighting his attendance during their home victory.

Chelle’s continued engagement with the domestic scene underlines a deliberate strategy to expand the Super Eagles’ talent pool, with increased opportunities expected for standout performers in the local league as preparations intensify for future competitions.

The Nigeria Premier Football League has released its official statistics after Matchday 36, offering a clear picture of a season defined by competitiveness and fine margins, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The data reveal a dominant home advantage across the campaign. Out of 268 victories recorded so far, home teams account for 226 wins, while away sides have managed just 42. A total of 91 matches have ended in draws, with visiting teams suffering 226 defeats, highlighting the difficulty of picking up points on the road.

At the summit, Rangers International F.C. lead the standings with 62 points from 36 matches. Their title push has been built on a solid defensive foundation, conceding just 25 goals—the best record in the league while also boasting a +18 goal difference. Rangers are equally effective in attack, ranking among the joint top scorers with 43 goals, underlining their balance at both ends of the pitch.

At the other end of the table, Bayelsa United F.C. and Wikki Tourists F.C. are level on 40 points, reflecting the intensity of the relegation battle heading into the final stretch of the season.

Meanwhile, Abia Warriors F.C. have impressed on their travels, recording the strongest away performance with five wins. In contrast, Remo Stars F.C. have struggled defensively, conceding 45 goals, the highest in the league, a factor that has significantly impacted their campaign.

With just two matchdays remaining and an outstanding fixture still to be decided, the numbers underline how tightly contested the 2025/26 season has been, with both the title race and survival fight set to go down to the wire.

Rangers International F.C. delivered one of the standout displays of Matchday 34 in the Nigeria Premier Football League with a composed 2-0 away victory over Bayelsa United F.C. in Yenagoa, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports. The Flying Antelopes underlined their title credentials with a confident performance to remain firmly at the top of the table.

In Aba, Enyimba F.C. edged Remo Stars F.C. 2-1 in a lively contest. Victor Mbaoma handed the visitors the lead in the 21st minute, but Stanley Dimgba restored parity shortly after. Chidera Michael then struck early in the second half to secure all three points for the hosts.

Kun Khalifat F.C. claimed a dramatic 2-1 win over Kano Pillars F.C. Mmesoma Nnorom broke the deadlock in the 55th minute before Luis Dadong equalised late on. Oghenetega Ebetomame, however, emerged as the hero with a stoppage-time winner.

At the Bako Kontagora Stadium, Niger Tornadoes F.C. and Kwara United F.C. played out an entertaining 2-2 draw. Abdulrasheed Shehu Dabai opened the scoring from the penalty spot, Babatunde Bright responded quickly, while Akeem Akanni gave Kwara United the lead before Ismail Sarki salvaged a late point for the hosts.

In Ibadan, Shooting Stars S.C. secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Nasarawa United F.C. Lucky Emmanuel netted twice early on, JoFrank Istifanus pulled one back before the break, and Habibu Alakija equalised in the second half. Qamar Adegoke eventually sealed the win with a decisive strike in the 77th minute.

Rivers United F.C. strengthened their continental push with a dominant 3-0 triumph against Abia Warriors F.C. Wasiu Falolu, Timothy Zachariah, and Bello Babatunde were all on target in a convincing display.

Elsewhere, Barau F.C. cruised to a 3-0 win over El-Kanemi Warriors F.C., while Warri Wolves F.C. edged Plateau United F.C. 1-0 courtesy of Tejiri Emonena’s second-half strike.

With just a few rounds left, the title race, continental qualification battle, and relegation fight continue to intensify across the league.