The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, was among top football stakeholders and dignitaries present at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, as Rangers International emerged champions of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season following a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Ikorodu City.
The thrilling title-deciding encounter brought the curtain down on another highly competitive NPFL campaign, with Rangers securing the championship despite Rivers United’s 3–0 victory over Katsina United elsewhere.
Adeboye joined the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, and NPFL Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, during the trophy presentation ceremony to celebrate the newly crowned champions.
Speaking after the match, the SSA commended the continued progress of the Nigerian league, describing the season as another positive step forward for domestic football development.
“What we witnessed today reflects the steady growth of the NPFL. The organization, competitiveness, fan engagement, and overall atmosphere show that Nigerian football is moving in the right direction.”
Adeboye praised the league management for sustaining improvements in structure and administration while also acknowledging the growing confidence from fans, clubs, and stakeholders.
“There is clear progress in the league, and everyone involved deserves credit for the work being done to improve Nigerian football.”
The SSA also congratulated Rangers International for their consistency throughout the season, describing the title win as well deserved.
“Rangers showed quality, resilience, and consistency throughout the campaign. Winning the league at this level requires discipline and hard work, and they truly earned this title.”
Adeboye further applauded clubs like Ikorodu City and Rivers United for contributing to an exciting title race that kept fans engaged until the final day of the season.
“This kind of competition is healthy for the growth of the league. It raises standards, attracts attention, and inspires young players across the country.”
The SSA emphasized the importance of continued investment in grassroots football and domestic competitions, noting that a stronger league system creates more opportunities for Nigerian talents to develop and succeed professionally.
“The NPFL remains a major platform for talent discovery and development. The stronger our league becomes, the stronger Nigerian football becomes overall.”
He also echoed calls for increased corporate support and sponsorship for the league, stressing that the growing quality and visibility of the NPFL make it attractive for major investors.
“Our domestic football has enormous potential, and with the right support and investment, the league can grow even bigger and compete favorably on the continent.”
As celebrations continued in Lagos, Adeboye reaffirmed the commitment of the Presidency toward policies and initiatives that strengthen grassroots and professional football structures across Nigeria.
With another successful NPFL season concluded, the message from stakeholders at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena was clear—
Nigerian football is steadily rising, and the future of the domestic game looks increasingly promising.
