In a dramatic twist to an already riveting football season, Federation Cup finalists Abakaliki United have been relegated from the Nigerian National League (NNL), highlighting the contrast between cup success and league failure.
The Ebonyi-based club, nicknamed the “Rice Boys,” stunned many by reaching the 2025 President Federation Cup final, where they are set to face Kwara United.
However, that fairy-tale run could not mask their dismal league form, as they were named among eight teams demoted from Nigeria’s second-tier league at the close of the 2024/2025 season.
Abakaliki United’s relegation came alongside fellow Conference A clubs Madiba FC of Lagos and Gateway United of Abeokuta. From Conference B, Ijele FC and Igbajo United were also demoted, while 1472 FC of Lagos dropped out after being withdrawn earlier in the season.
Zamfara United and Adamawa United completed the list from Conferences C and D respectively.
NNL Chairman George Aluo confirmed the decision, stating it was based on resolutions from the league’s Congress held in Bauchi prior to the season.
> “At the AGM before the start of the season, 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.
Despite Abakaliki United’s impressive cup journey, their inability to secure league survival underscores the dual demands of Nigerian football’s domestic competitions.
Their relegation also raises questions about squad depth and strategic planning, as the club must now focus on their Federation Cup final with the specter of second-division football next season.
Meanwhile, the NNL will maintain its 36-club structure heading into the 2025/2026 season. Notably, the league will welcome four high-profile additions—Lobi Stars, Heartland FC, Sunshine Stars, and Akwa United—all relegated from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
As the curtain falls on the season, Abakaliki United face an unusual challenge: preparing for one of the biggest matches in their history while grappling with the reality of life in the third tier. A Federation Cup title would offer a silver lining—and possibly a ticket to continental football—but for now, their relegation remains a sobering reminder that cup glory doesn’t always translate to league survival.
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