2025/2026 NNL season: Ranchers Bees FC end 18-year wait, secure NPFL return

Posted : 24 April 2026

Ranchers Bees FC have officially sealed a historic return to Nigeria’s topflight, ending an 18-year absence after securing promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for the 2026/27 season.

The achievement marks a significant milestone for one of Nigeria’s traditional clubs, whose journey back to the elite level has been defined by resilience, strategic rebuilding, and unwavering determination.

Their consistent performances throughout the campaign underline a team well-prepared to compete once again at the highest level of domestic football.

More than just promotion, this success symbolizes the rebirth of a proud football legacy. Since the club’s revival on August 16, 2025, Ranchers Bees have reignited passion for the game across Kaduna and Zaria, restoring belief among supporters, stakeholders, and the wider football community.

The club extended appreciation to Sadiq Umar Mega, Bello El-Rufai, Faisal Abdullahi, and President Nura Abdullahi for their leadership and commitment. Special recognition was also given to Uba Sani and Tajudeen Abbas for their continued support toward football development in the state.

Above all, the triumph is dedicated to the loyal fans whose patience and belief fueled the journey back to prominence. For Ranchers Bees, this moment is not the destination, but the beginning of a new era.

This year’s Super 4 tournament is strictly designed to determine the overall champion of the Nigeria National League. All participating teams have already secured automatic promotion to the NPFL after finishing top in their respective conferences.

The qualified teams include: Doma United, Ranchers Bees FC, Inter Lagos FC, and Sporting Lagos FC.

The tournament is scheduled to take place from May 1 to May 8, 2026, at the Remo Stars Stadium, where the best teams of the season will battle for the NNL crown.

The return of Ranchers Bees FC to the NPFL marks the restoration of a historic footballing powerhouse to the top tier of Nigerian sports. By securing their place among the elite, the club has fulfilled the long-held aspirations of its dedicated supporters and the Kaduna football community. The upcoming Super 4 tournament provides a final opportunity for the Bees to demonstrate their dominance before beginning their campaign in the premier division.

2025/2026 NNL season: Ranchers Bees FC end 18-year wait, secure NPFL return

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​2025/2026 NNL season: Ranchers Bees FC end 18-year wait, secure NPFL return

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2025/2026 NNL season: Ranchers Bees FC end 18-year wait, secure NPFL return