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2025/2026 NNL Introduces New Format, Abolishes Playoff

Posted : 18 September 2025

The Nigeria National League (NNL) has announced a new format for the 2025/2026 season, abolishing the Super 8 playoff.  Following a congress held in Kaduna, league management, led by George Aluo, unveiled a direct qualification system where the top four teams from each conference will automatically secure promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

 

 

This decision was unanimously endorsed by club owners at the NNL’s 15th Annual General Meeting (AGM), marking a new chapter in Nigeria’s second-tier football structure.

 

The reform aims to provide a fairer, more transparent pathway for promotion while reducing the controversies and logistical challenges associated with playoffs.

 

NNL officials stated that the change would bring stability to the league and give clubs clearer targets, encouraging merit-based competition across conferences.

 

In addition to the structural reform, the 2025/2026 season is set to kick off on November 8, with all 36 clubs expected to complete licensing and player registrations ahead of the opening fixtures.

 

Football analysts have praised the decision, noting it aligns the NNL with global best practices and reduces financial strain on clubs. With promotion now determined strictly by league standings, teams can focus on long-term planning and consistent performance.

 

 The NNL leadership assured fans of quality football, improved organization, and a stronger foundation for Nigerian football development.

 

Proposed Groupings for 2025/2026 Season:

Conference A: Abia Comets FC, Beyond Limits FA, Crown FC, Edel FC, E-World Utd FC, Inter Lagos FC, Sunshine Stars FC, Heartland FC, Godswill Akpabio Utd FC, Smart City FC

Conference B: Akwa Utd FC, Abakaliki FC, Ekiti Utd FC, Dakkada FC, Sporting Lagos FC, Osun Utd FC, First Bank FC, Stormers SC, Rovers FC, Solution FC

Conference C: ABS FC, FC Basira, Doma Utd FC, Lobi Stars FC, City FC, Kada Warriors FC, Mighty Jets FC, Sokoto Utd FC

Conference D: Bichi First FC, Jigawa Golden Stars FC, Ranchers Bees FC, Adamawa Utd FC, Sporting Supreme FC, Gombe Utd FC, Kebbi Utd FC, Yobe Desert Stars FC

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