In a dramatic conclusion to the 2024/2025 Nigerian National League (NNL) season, eight teams, including President Federation Cup finalists Abakaliki United, have been relegated from the second-tier league.
The development has sent shockwaves through the football community, particularly for Abakaliki United, nicknamed the “Rice Boys,” who are preparing to face Kwara United in the prestigious cup final later this year.
Abakaliki United’s relegation from Conference A is joined by Madiba FC of Lagos and Gateway United of Abeokuta, both of whom struggled to maintain their standing this season.
In Conference B, Ijele FC, Igbajo United, and 1472 FC of Lagos also faced demotion, with 1472 FC notably having been withdrawn from the league earlier in the campaign. Conference C saw Zamfara United relegated, while Conference D’s Adamawa United failed to secure their place in the NNL for the upcoming season.
The relegations were confirmed by NNL Chairman George Aluo, who emphasized that the decisions aligned with resolutions made at the league’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Bauchi before the season began.
“At the AGM, it was unanimously agreed that eight teams would be relegated at the end of the season—three from Conference A, three from Conference B, and one each from Conferences C and D,” Aluo explained. The restructuring ensures the NNL will maintain a 36-team format for the 2025/2026 season.
Adding intrigue to next season’s NNL campaign, four Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) teams—Lobi Stars, Heartland FC, Sunshine Stars, and Akwa United—will join the second tier after their relegation from the top flight. The influx of these former NPFL sides promises a highly competitive season ahead.
Abakaliki United’s relegation, despite their cup success, underscores the unforgiving nature of league football, where even standout performances in knockout competitions cannot guarantee survival.