Victor Ntino-Emo Gidado is aiming for a strong end to the season with Gaziantep F.K. as they prepare for a crucial Süper Lig encounter against Eyüpspor this weekend, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The 21-year-old defensive midfielder, who joined Gaziantep during the January transfer window from NK Bravo, has made a solid impression since his arrival. He has featured in seven league matches, delivering consistent performances in the heart of midfield.

Gidado is expected to be included in the squad for the trip to Eyüpspor, who are currently battling to avoid relegation. Gaziantep, positioned in mid-table, are looking to secure their top-flight status as the campaign enters its decisive phase.

Despite the high stakes, the Nigerian remains cautiously optimistic about his side’s chances, acknowledging the challenge ahead while expressing confidence in their preparation.

“It won’t be a stroll in the park, but we are ready and hopeful of a good result,” he said.

Gidado also highlighted his smooth adaptation to life in Turkey, noting that the presence of fellow Nigerian players in the league has helped ease his transition.

Managed by KCG Sporting Management, the young midfielder will be hoping to play an influential role as Gaziantep push to finish the season on a positive note.

The Nigeria Premier Football League has sanctioned Kano Pillars following incidents that occurred during their recent fixture against Rivers United, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The league body confirmed that Kano Pillars have been fined ?15 million for multiple breaches related to the match, as part of disciplinary measures to maintain order and professionalism in the competition.

In addition to the financial penalty, the Sai Masu Gida will play their next three home matches behind closed doors. This sanction includes their only remaining home fixture of the current season, while the other two matches will be carried over to the start of the next campaign.

The NPFL reiterated its commitment to enforcing strict regulations and ensuring clubs comply with established standards, warning that further infractions could result in even more severe disciplinary action.

The Nigeria Premier Football League has confirmed that the 2025/26 season will conclude as scheduled on May 24, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Clubs in the top flight will observe a short break this weekend to accommodate fixtures in the NFF President Federation Cup, a move designed to ensure a smooth and disruption-free calendar.

According to NPFL Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, the league had earlier collaborated with the Nigeria Football Federation Competitions Department to create dedicated windows for the Federation Cup.

“We synergised with the NFF Competitions Department at the start of the season to create windows for the Federation Cup. It has been in effect since January and we are running our calendar as designed,” Owumi stated.

He further emphasized that maintaining fixture consistency has been a deliberate effort, requiring coordination and cooperation from all participating clubs.

“We have been intentional to maintain fixture fidelity and it took a lot of planning and cooperation from the clubs to achieve this,” he added.

Following the break, Matchday 36 and 37 fixtures will be played on May 3 and May 10 respectively, while another Federation Cup window is scheduled for May 16 and 17.

The final round of matches will then be played simultaneously on Sunday, May 24, bringing the season to a close.

Emmanuel Deutsch has insisted that Enyimba will not be distracted by their 2–1 defeat to Rangers International in Sunday’s 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday 35 Oriental Derby at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com.

The match saw former Rangers winger Wonah Williams put Enyimba ahead early in the second half, but the hosts responded through Ifeanyi Onyebuchi and Chidozie Iwundu, who scored the decisive goal in the 68th minute to end Enyimba’s four-game unbeaten run.

The result leaves Enyimba in 13th position with 43 points, while Rangers climbed back to the top of the table with 59 points.

Despite the setback, Deutsch maintained that the defeat would not derail his team’s survival mission, stressing that the focus remains on securing maximum points in the remaining fixtures.

“Losing such a derby game away isn’t that bad. It wasn’t a bad game. We scored the first goal; they equalised and scored the second,” he said.

“They needed the victory the way we needed it, and it’s a regional derby. They got their three points, congratulations to them, and we will go home to prepare for the next game.”

He added that Enyimba’s current situation demands calmness and focus, describing the loss as a “temporary stumble” as the club continues its fight to finish the season strongly.

The technical adviser of Nasarawa United has reaffirmed his belief that the team can still win the Nigeria Premier Football League title despite stiff competition, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The Solid Miners boosted their ambitions with a commanding 3-0 victory over Warri Wolves last weekend, returning to winning ways at a crucial stage of the season.

However, Nasarawa United remain behind league leaders Rangers International and fellow contenders Rivers United, with just three matches left to play.

Speaking after the win, the coach acknowledged the challenge posed by their rivals but insisted his side remains focused on finishing strong.

“We’re worried that our title contenders are also winning their games away. We still have a lot of work to do with the remaining three matches left to end the current campaign to enable us to achieve our goals,” he stated.

With the title race entering a decisive phase, Nasarawa United will need to maintain consistency in their remaining fixtures while hoping for slip-ups from their rivals to keep their championship hopes alive.

The Nigeria Football Coaches Association has commended the leadership of the Nigeria Premier Football League and the Nigeria Football Federation for significant administrative progress recorded during the 2025/26 season, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

In a statement issued as the campaign approaches its final stretch, the coaches’ body praised the NPFL board, led by Gbenga Elegbeleye, for ensuring that fixtures have progressed seamlessly up to Matchday 35 without outstanding games, describing it as a major improvement in planning and discipline.

With just three matches left, the NFCA highlighted the league’s adherence to a structured calendar aligned with continental competitions, a departure from previous seasons often affected by scheduling disruptions. The association also credited the NPFL board for effectively handling operational challenges while maintaining the integrity of the competition.

The role of the NFF was equally acknowledged, particularly in areas of governance, coaching development, and improvements in refereeing standards and welfare. According to the NFCA, these efforts are already reflecting in the overall quality of play across the league.

On the pitch, the association noted increased competitiveness, with the title race and relegation battle still open. It also pointed to a rise in away victories, the emergence of young talents, and a closely contested top scorers’ chart as evidence of technical and tactical growth in the league.

The NFCA attributed these gains to deliberate governance reforms, improved planning, and stronger collaboration among stakeholders, adding that enhanced matchday organization and growing confidence in officiating are clear signs of progress.

Looking ahead, the body urged stakeholders to sustain the momentum by focusing on key areas such as improved club infrastructure, expanded broadcast coverage, adoption of a centralized football data system, and the use of end-of-season technical reports to guide future policies.

Reaffirming its support, the NFCA expressed optimism that continued collaboration between technical and administrative bodies will help the NPFL strengthen its position within African football and gradually close the gap with leading global leagues.

Chidera Michael has thrown himself into contention for the 2025/2026 NPFL Top Scorer’s Award after netting his 10th goal of the season in Enyimba’s 3-0 victory over Katsina United, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The youngster’s latest strike in the Matchday 34 clash in Aba sees him move into third place on the scorers’ chart, behind Joseph Arumala of Ikorodu City, who leads with 12 goals, and Godwin Obaje of Rangers with 11.

The ongoing campaign marks Michael’s debut season in the Nigerian top flight following his move from Ozalla Football Academy, and he has quickly established himself as one of the league’s standout performers.

With four matches remaining before the end of the season, the race for the Golden Boot remains wide open, with the Enyimba forward firmly in the mix.

Despite his impressive numbers, Michael has played down individual ambitions, insisting his priority remains the success of the team.

“It has been a tough campaign, but I can only remain grateful to God for everything,” he told Completesports.com.

“I thank God for an injury-free season so far, but I must say I’m not competing with any player for anything. My focus is on helping my club achieve something this season.

“I must thank my teammates, the coaches, and the supporters for their support and encouragement so far.”

The forward also acknowledged the challenges of adapting to top-flight football, while expressing satisfaction with his contributions so far.

“It has been a nice season so far. It has equally been tough. First time in the top league isn’t easy, and scoring ten goals so far is something to be happy about.

“But then, it’s not about me. It’s not about personal glory. It’s all about doing what I am here to do — to contribute my quota to the success of the club.

“Our target is to finish the season on a high, and that’s what we’re focusing on, working hard every day to achieve.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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