NWFL Fines Ibom Angels ₦2.5m, Orders Three Home Matches Behind Closed Doors After Uyo Incident

The Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) has imposed sanctions on Ibom Angels FC following crowd disturbances and the assault on Bayelsa Queens players and officials during their Premiership fixture in Uyo on Wednesday. The disciplinary action, announced on Thursday, 8 January 2026, followed a review of match officials’ reports and video evidence from the NWFL Premiership encounter, played on 7 January 2026 at the Uyo Township Stadium, Akwa Ibom State. Supporters of Ibom Angels were found to have encroached onto the field of play and attacked players and officials of Bayelsa Queens, an act the league described as a serious violation of its regulatory framework and the principles of fair play. As a result, the NWFL fined Ibom Angels a total of ₦2.5 million for multiple breaches of its regulations. The fine includes ₦1.5 million for contravening Article 26.1 relating to assault, intimidation and offensive conduct, and an additional ₦1 million for bringing the game into disrepute and failing to provide adequate security. The league organizers also ordered Ibom Angels to play their next three home matches behind closed doors, in line with Article 16.4 of the NWFL regulations. Commenting on the decision, NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi said the sanctions were necessary to protect the integrity of the league and ensure the safety of all participants. “The safety of players, officials and match personnel is non-negotiable,” Shabi said. “What occurred in Uyo represents a serious breach of our regulations and the values of the NWFL. We will take stiffer actions against any club whose supporters engage in violence or conduct capable of bringing the league into disrepute.” The affected fixtures to be played without spectators are Ibom Angels’ home games against Ekiti Queens, Edo Queens and Naija Ratels, scheduled for January and February. The NWFL further warned that any failure to comply with the sanctions or a repeat of such incidents could attract more severe penalties, including extended venue bans or further disciplinary measures.

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Ekiti Queens Get ₦2.5m Fine, Three-Game Home Ban

The Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) has imposed sanctions on Ekiti Queens following the assault on match officials during their Wednesday’s home match against Edo Queens in Ado-Ekiti, describing the incident as a severe violation of league safety and conduct regulations. In a swift response on Thursday, NWFL Media Director Samuel Ahmadu issued an official statement detailing the disciplinary actions, warning that the league organisers would not tolerate any threat to the safety of referees or the integrity of its competitions. Confirming the sanctions, NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi condemned the attack and reiterated the league’s firm stance on safety and professionalism. “The assault on our match officials in Ado-Ekiti is completely unacceptable and a gross breach of NWFL regulations,” Shabi said. “The NWFL wishes to reiterate that the safety of referees is paramount. Violence, intimidation, or any behaviour that undermines the integrity of the league will attract the strongest possible sanctions.” Following the preliminary review of official reports and video evidences, the NWFL found Ekiti Queens guilty of multiple breaches of league regulations, including failure to provide adequate security, failure to control supporters, and allowing an unsafe environment that led to the attack on officials. As punishment,Ekiti Queens have been fined a total of ₦2.5 million for the varying breaches. In addition, the NWFL also ordered the club to play their next three home matches at a neutral venue in MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta. Shabi, also further, stressed that the penalties serve as a deterrent to all clubs across the league. “The NWFL will continue to enforce strict standards to protect match officials and maintain order at all centres. An attack on a referee is an attack on the league itself,” she said. “Clubs must ensure full compliance with our safety and conduct regulations.” The NWFL further appealed to home teams, state football associations, and matchday organisers to strengthen their security operations as the 2025/26 Premiership season gathers intensity.

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NWFL Warns Premiership Clubs Over Late Registration, Insists Nov 26 Kickoff Date

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has issued a firm warning to clubs yet to complete their digital registration and club licensing procedures ahead of the new Premiership season, stressing that non-compliant teams risk sanctions, including relegation. With the November 22 deadline fast approaching, the league organizers, in a statement on Tuesday by Media Director, Samuel Ahmadu, confirmed that Castmog Ladies, Osun Babes, and Naija Ratels are among the clubs still behind schedule in meeting the mandatory digital documentation and licensing requirements. All processes are now conducted through the league’s digital registration portal to ensure transparency and efficiency as part of efforts to professionalise women’s football in Nigeria. NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Modupe Shabi, urged the outstanding clubs to complete their submissions without delay, reaffirming that the deadline will not be extended. “The digital registration and licensing process is designed to ensure that every club meets the minimum professional standards required to compete,” Shabi said. “We expect full compliance before the November 22 deadline. Any club that fails to meet these financial and administrative obligations will face the consequences as outlined in our regulations. Our commitment is to run a credible, properly structured league.” The NWFL reiterated its determination to enforce all regulatory provisions to guarantee a seamless start to the new season and uphold the integrity of the competition.

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NWFL Launches Mandatory Digital Registration and Licensing Portal for 2025/26 Premiership Season

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has launched a compulsory digital portal for player registration and club licensing ahead of the 2025/26 season. The initiative was announced in a statement issued on Friday, November 14, by the league’s Media Director, Samuel Ahmadu, as part of ongoing efforts to modernise administrative processes and strengthen regulatory compliance across the league. Confirming the development, Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi said the digital platform represents a significant advancement in the NWFL’s governance standards. “This platform is designed to eliminate manual delays, minimise documentation errors, and provide real-time oversight of all registration activities. It is an important step toward making the NWFL more efficient and globally competitive,” she said. Shabi noted that the portal’s verification features will play a critical role in reducing common infractions such as age falsification, dual registration, and irregular player movement. “The system gives the league the ability to authenticate submitted documents instantly. It strengthens integrity, ensures accountability, and aligns us with international best practices,” she added. The NWFL COO also disclosed that the initiative received strong endorsement from club representatives during the recent Congress in Port Harcourt, where stakeholders approved the digital migration as essential to improving organisational efficiency and strengthening league structures. Under the updated NWFL Registration and Club Licensing Regulations, all clubs are required to complete their player registration exclusively through the new portal from November 14 to 21, 2025. Required documentation includes national identification, passport photographs, verified age records, academic credentials, medical fitness reports, and digitally signed player contracts. Licensing submissions also mandate coaching licences, stadium certification, audited financial statements, ownership documents, and evidence of youth development structures. According to the NWFL secretariat, the digital portal is also a strategic tool to enhance the marketability of the league by improving transparency, data integrity, and administrative professionalism, key requirements for attracting sponsors, commercial partners, and international collaborations.  

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Port Harcourt to Host 2025 NWFL Annual General Assembly

Port Harcourt to Host 2025 NWFL Annual General Assembly

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has officially announced that its 2025 Annual General Assembly (AGA) will be held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. Confirming the development, the Chief Operating Officer of the NWFL, Ms. Modupe Shabi, stated that the 2025 AGA will bring together Chairmen and General Managers of NWFL Premiership and Championship clubs, alongside key stakeholders, to deliberate on the progress and future of women’s football in Nigeria. According to Ms. Shabi, delegates are expected to arrive on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, ahead of the main congress scheduled for the following day. Some of the major highlights of this year’s Assembly will include the announcement of the 2025/2026 NWFL Premiership kickoff date and the official Premiership Draw, which will unveil fixtures for the upcoming league season. The Annual General Assembly serves as the NWFL’s highest decision-making platform, providing an avenue for club representatives, administrators, and stakeholders to review the past season’s activities, discuss strategic reforms, and set the agenda for the continued growth of women’s football across the country. Ms. Shabi expressed optimism about the gathering, noting that, “the AGA will offer an opportunity for fruitful deliberations as we collectively advance the growth and development of women’s football in Nigeria.” The NWFL COO expressed readiness to host all participating clubs and stakeholders in Port Harcourt for what promises to be a pivotal session in shaping the next chapter of the women’s game in Nigeria. Meanwhile, preparations for the new season are in top gear following the conclusion of the 2024/2025 campaign, which saw Bayelsa Queens emerge Premiership champions for a record sixth time after clinching the Super Six title in Ikenne. Promoted to the NWFL Premiership are Sunshine Queens (Ondo), Castmog Ladies (Ogun), Ahudiyannem Queens (Abia), and Imo Striker Queens (Imo), expanding the top-flight to 20 teams ahead of the 2025/2026 season. In the Championship, newly promoted clubs include Dreamstar Ladies (returnees), Rangers Women (debutants), Rosaria Victrix (debutants), and Solo Wonders (debutants), all securing their places in the NWFL Championship 2026.

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NWFL Announces New Kickoff Date, Venue for 2025 Nationwide

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has officially announced the new kickoff date, venue, and fixtures for the 2025 NWFL Nationwide. The championship is now scheduled to take place from October 10 to 17, 2025, at the Bwari Township Stadium in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory. In a statement released on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi confirmed that the competition will feature ten teams divided into two groups of five. She described the tournament as a critical platform for emerging clubs seeking to advance through the league structure. “The Nationwide competition remains a vital platform for clubs across the country to showcase their potential and progress through the league system. We are committed to ensuring it is competitive, transparent, and successful,” Shabi said. The schedule will begin with the arrival of teams and a pre-match technical meeting on October 10, followed by the start of matches on October 11. Fixtures will continue on October 13, 14, 16, and 17, with October 12 and 15 designated as rest days. Stressing the tournament’s importance for women’s football development in Nigeria, Shabi added, “At the end of the tournament, the two best teams from each group will be promoted to the NWFL Championship, which is a huge motivation for all the participating clubs.” She concluded, “We wish all the clubs the very best of luck and look forward to an exciting week of women’s football in the Federal Capital Territory.” The groups include Osklean FC (Rivers State), Rangers Women FC (Enugu State), Plateau Queens FC (Plateau State), DreamStars Ladies FC (Lagos State), and C2E Sports Academy (Abia State) in Group A. Group B consists of Sporting Angels FC (Rivers State), Alexander Queens FC (Enugu State), Rosaria Victrix FC (Imo State), NAF Queens FC (Abuja), and Solo Wonders FC (Akwa Ibom State).

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NWFL Congratulates Newly Promoted Premiership Clubs

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has extended hearty congratulations to Sunshine Queens, Castmog Ladies, Ahudiyannem Queens, and Imo Striker Queens on their successful promotions to the NWFL Premiership at the conclusion of the 2025 Championship season, staged from September 11 to 21 in Umuahia and Abiriba, Abia State, South-East Nigeria. Sunshine Queens of Ondo State, a government-owned side with Premiership pedigree, return to the elite division. They are joined by three ambitious debutants, Castmog Ladies of Ogun State, Ahudiyannem Queens of Abia State, and Imo Striker Queens of Imo State, all privately owned and making history with their maiden ascent. In a statement on Monday, September 22, 2025, NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Modupe Shabi, commended the promoted clubs for their resilience and quality performances while appreciating other participating clubs. “We warmly congratulate the four teams on their deserved qualification to the Premiership. Their success is a testament to hard work, determination, and commitment to excellence. The NWFL is proud of the quality of football displayed throughout this year’s Championship and we are excited to welcome fresh talents and new clubs into the top division,” said Ms. Shabi. The league organisers also paid glowing tribute to the official sponsor of the 2025 Championship, Dr. Robert Daniel Onyeani, Chairman of Ahudiyannem Queens, whose support was pivotal to the successful delivery of this year’s event. “We owe a special gratitude to Dr. Onyeani for his vision and generosity in sponsoring this Championship. His investment has not only elevated his club but also strengthened the entire ecosystem of women’s football in Nigeria. He has set a laudable benchmark for private sector involvement in our game,” Shabi added. The NWFL COO further appreciated the Abia State Football Association, the Abiriba community, participating clubs, referees, match officials, and fans whose dedication and commitment ensured the smooth organisation and vibrant atmosphere of the tournament. “The unity of purpose displayed by all stakeholders reaffirms our vision to raise the standard of women’s football across Nigeria. We deeply value the contributions of everyone who played a part in making this Championship a success,” Shabi concluded. With the Championship now concluded, the NWFL reiterated its pledge to strengthen its competitions, empower young female footballers, and sustain the Premiership as a benchmark of excellence, integrity, and inclusivity in Nigerian women’s football.

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NWFL Confirms Sole Approval of ₦200,000 Best Goalkeeper of the Season Award Sponsorship

The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has officially confirmed that the only approved sponsorship for the 2024/2025 season is the End-of-Season Best Goalkeeper Award, valued at ₦200,000, and sponsored by the Judith Chime Foundation. The award will be presented at the conclusion of the ongoing NWFL Premiership Super Six, which runs from May 9 to 17, 2025, at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State. Following the review of a proposal from the Judith Chime Foundation, the NWFL approved only the goalkeeper award in accordance with its operational guidelines and commitment to professionalism. In a statement, the Chief Operating Officer of the NWFL, Ms. Modupe Shabi, expressed appreciation for the Foundation’s initiative while clarifying the league’s regulatory stance. “We sincerely appreciate the Judith Chime Foundation’s gesture in rewarding excellence among NWFL Premiership goalkeepers. However, it is important to state that only the ₦200,000 End-of-Season Best Goalkeeper Award has been formally approved for the 2024/2025 season,” Shabi said. She also commended Judith Chime, former Super Falcons goalkeeper, for her continued support for women’s football development in Nigeria. “Judith Chime has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for the women’s game. Her Foundation’s contribution reflects our shared goal of spotlighting talent and dedication within the league,” she added. To maintain the league’s standards and commercial framework, the NWFL COO emphasized that no other cash prizes or material donations have been sanctioned. “This decision is part of our commitment to protecting the integrity and value of the NWFL, especially as we continue to attract growing corporate and commercial interest,” Shabi stated. The NWFL remains open to well-structured, transparent partnerships that align with its vision for the sustainable growth of professional women’s football in Nigeria.

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