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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2024/25 NWFL Premiership MD1 Preview: South-South derbies set to headline opening matchday

The 2024/2025 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership season is set to kick off on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, with an exciting slate of fixtures across eight centres in the country. The opening matchday promises a fierce start, with two South-South derbies taking centre stage, alongside other thrilling matchups as teams begin their quest for glory. Group AEdo Queens vs Abia Angels – Benin City The official opening Star Match of the new season set to be broadcast on NTA and Startimes will feature defending champions, Edo Queens, hosting Abia Angels at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City. Edo Queens, who claimed their maiden league title last season, also triumphed in the West Africa Zone B (WAFU-B) Women’s Champions League and reached the final of the 2024 CAF Women’s Champions League, ultimately finishing in fourth place. Under coach Moses Aduku, who has been handed a contract extension, the club’s primary focus will be to build on last season’s successes and defend their league title. In contrast, Abia Angels will be hoping to avoid another relegation battle after narrowly escaping the drop last season, surviving by a whisker on goal difference. With Adanna Nwaneri, a former Super Falcons defender, now at the helm, the Umuahia-based side will aim to improve on last season’s performance and start the campaign on a positive note. Edo Queens has been dominant in recent encounters, winning two of the last three league meetings, but Abia Angels pulled off a shock 1-0 victory in Benin City during the 2022/23 season. Ekiti Queens vs Heartland Queens – Ado Ekiti For the first time in top-flight history, Ekiti Queens and Heartland Queens will face off at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti. Ekiti Queens managed to narrowly avoid relegation last season, while Heartland Queens defied expectations by qualifying for the Super Six from Group A. Despite their struggles at the Super Six, Obi Ogbala’s side will be aiming to build on that experience and continue their growth. Ekiti Queens, under new coach Jacob Vandhi, will be hoping to improve on last season’s performance and avoid another relegation battle. Confluence Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies – Anyigba Another exciting matchup features Confluence Queens and Remo Stars Ladies at the Anyigba City Stadium in Kogi State. Confluence Queens finished second in Group A last season, securing a Super Six spot but struggled to make an impact in the playoffs. Their opponent, Remo Stars, had a solid debut season, finishing fifth in Group B, and have been in good form recently, winning the Ogun State FA Cup and reaching the semi-final of the 2024 President Federation Cup. Their success in the Sheroes Cup adds further confidence as they prepare for the new season. Nasarawa Amazons vs Dannaz Ladies – Lafia Nasarawa Amazons will begin their campaign with a home match against Dannaz Ladies at Lafia City Stadium. The Solid Babes finished top of Group A last season but couldn’t replicate that success in the Super Six. They will be determined to return to the Super Six playoffs, starting with a strong result against Dannaz Ladies, who had a commendable debut season in 2023/24, finishing just outside the playoff spots. Group BRivers Angels vs Ibom Angels – Port Harcourt The first of two South-South derbies on Matchday 1 sees Rivers Angels host Ibom Angels in Port Harcourt. Rivers Angels came agonizingly close to claiming an eighth league title last season, finishing second in the Super Six by a single point. With new coach Tosan Blankson in charge, they will be eager to go one better this season and secure that elusive title. Meanwhile, Ibom Angels return to the top flight after a successful promotion campaign, and their new coach, Edwin Okon, will be looking to make a strong start as they aim to retain their top-flight status. Adamawa Queens vs Naija Ratels FC – Gombe In a Northern derby, Adamawa Queens host Naija Ratels at the Pantami Stadium in Gombe. Both teams finished on 17 points last season, with Adamawa Queens emerging victorious in their last encounter, winning 2-0. Naija Ratels, however, will be determined to bounce back and improve on their mid-table finish, aiming for a spot in the Super Six this time around. Benue Queens vs FC Robo Queens – Lafia In a David vs Goliath encounter, newly promoted Benue Queens will face FC Robo Queens at Lafia City Stadium. Benue Queens, fresh off their return to the top flight, will be hoping to make a statement in their debut season. Under the guidance of experienced coach Liadi Bashiru, they will be looking for a positive result to set the tone for their maiden top-flight campaign. On the other hand, FC Robo Queens, perennial contenders in the league, will be hoping to secure a victory to relaunch their bid for a return to the end of the season’s Championship Super Six tournament. Bayelsa Queens vs Delta Queens – Yenegoa The second South-South derby of the day sees Bayelsa Queens host Delta Queens at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenegoa. This fixture is one of the most anticipated of the opening matchday, given the fierce rivalry between the two teams. Delta Queens have had the upper hand in recent encounters, winning three of the last eight meetings, while Bayelsa Queens have managed just one victory. Both teams now have new coaches at the helm, with Tosan Blankson guiding Bayelsa Queens and Peter Dedevbo taking over at Delta Queens. This match will set the tone for both teams as they embark on their league campaigns. With so many exciting fixtures on the horizon, Matchday 1 of the 2024/25 NWFL Premiership promises to deliver plenty of action as teams jostle for early points and set their sights on achieving their season goals. Pep Guardiola reportedly splits from wife Cristina after 30 years together Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has split from his wife Cristina Serra after 30 years together. Barcelona-based outlet Sport reported that the long-term couple called it quits in…

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