The reigning champions of the Nigeria Women Football League NWFL Premiership, Edo Queens, will kick off their title defence against Abia Angels. As announced during the league’s Annual General Assembly in Abuja, the match will take place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
The new season, starting on January 15, 2025, features 16 teams divided into two groups of eight. Efforts to expand the league to 18 teams were rejected during the assembly. Group A includes Edo Queens, Abia Angels, Ekiti Queens, Heartland Queens, Confluence Queens, Remo Stars Ladies, Nasarawa Amazons, and Dannaz Ladies. Group B comprises Rivers Angels, Ibom Angels, Adamawa Queens, Naija Ratels FC, Honey Badgers FC, FC Robo Queens, Bayelsa Queens, and Delta Queens.
As in the previous season, the top three teams from each group will advance to the Super Six playoff to determine the league winner. Edo Queens, representing Nigeria in the CAF Champions League, aims to maintain dominance. Ibom Angels and Honey Badgers FC are newly promoted sides and will make their Premiership debut this season.
Matchday One fixtures include:
Group A: Edo Queens vs Abia Angels, Ekiti Queens vs Heartland Queens, Confluence Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies, Nasarawa Amazons vs Dannaz Ladies.
Group B: Rivers Angels vs Ibom Angels, Adamawa Queens vs Naija Ratels, Honey Badgers vs FC Robo Queens, Bayelsa Queens vs Delta Queens.
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Editorial
The upcoming NWFL Premiership season promises to be a captivating spectacle for Nigerian football fans. The spotlight is on Edo Queens, whose success last season established them as a formidable force in women’s football. Their campaign this year begins with a tough test against Abia Angels, underscoring the competitive nature of the league.
As advocates of women’s sports, we are thrilled by the growth of the NWFL, evident in the strategic organisation of the league and the inclusion of new teams. However, it is disheartening to note that the proposal to expand the league to 18 teams was not approved. This could have provided more players with opportunities to shine and further enriched the league’s diversity.
The Super Six playoff format, though exciting, could benefit from review to ensure fairness and inclusivity. We must also spotlight Edo Queens’ role in representing Nigeria on the continental stage, showcasing the potential of our local talent to the world. This season should be a celebration of talent and resilience, from the experienced squads to the ambitious debutants like Honey Badgers FC and Ibom Angels.
The start of this season gives us, as fans and stakeholders, an opportunity to reflect on what can be done to elevate the league further. Women’s football in Nigeria holds immense promise, and its development requires commitment from everyone involved. Let’s ensure this season not only entertains but also sets new standards for excellence.
Did You Know?
- The NWFL is one of the oldest women’s football leagues in Africa, established in 1990.
- Edo Queens are one of the most financially supported women’s football teams in Nigeria, receiving consistent backing from the Edo State Government.
- The CAF Women’s Champions League, where Edo Queens competed, was only launched in 2021.
- Rivers Angels hold the record for the most NWFL Premiership titles won by any team.
- Women’s football in Nigeria has produced global stars like Asisat Oshoala, who plays for FC Barcelona.
