NPFL: Clubs Step Up As 2025-2026 Season Preparations Begin

With the 2025-2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season set to kick off on Friday, August 22, clubs across the country are intensifying preparations both on and off the pitch.

Some clubs have already set dates for the resumption of training sessions, while some are making efforts to meet up with new directives issued by the NPFL ahead of the new season.

Lafia City Stadium to Undergo Major Overhaul

The Lafia City Stadium, home of Nasarawa United, is set for a significant upgrade in line with the NPFL’s recent order mandating all participating clubs to improve their facilities ahead of the new campaign.

According to the NPFL, clubs must ensure their stadiums feature a standard playing surface, approved and functional LED floodlights for night games, and backup generators to guarantee uninterrupted power supply.

Failure to comply will result in clubs playing home matches at neutral venues.

This directive aims to enhance the matchday experience and promote professional standards across the league.

Kano Pillars Eye Babaganaru Return as Technical Adviser

Kano Pillars are looking to bolster their technical bench by reuniting with a familiar face. The club has reportedly made enquiries about the availability of veteran coach Mohammed Babaganaru to fill their vacant technical adviser position.

Babaganaru, who stepped down as head coach of Akwa United in December, has previously managed Pillars in two different spells.

However, Salisu Yusuf, the current head coach of Nasarawa United, is also in the running for the job. Yusuf is yet to commit to a contract extension after leading Nasarawa United to safety last season.

Abia Warriors Begin Early Preparations for Historic CAF Campaign

Having finished third in the NPFL last season, Abia Warriors have started early preparations ahead of their maiden appearance in the CAF Confederation Cup.

Under the guidance of coach Imama Amapakabo, the Umuahia-based side will commence training with current squad members, while new recruits are expected to join later.

They will enter the continental competition from the preliminary round, alongside the yet-to-be-determined winner of the President Federation Cup final between Kwara United and Abakaliki FC.

Despite Nigeria’s long-standing presence in the CAF Confederation Cup, the country is yet to lift the trophy, a statistic the Warriors will hope to change.

Barau FC Rewarded for NNL Super Eight Qualification

In the second-tier Nigeria National League (NNL), Barau FC players received a ₦2 million cash reward from club owner Barau I. Jibrin after securing a spot in the NNL Super Eight playoffs.

During a visit to the team’s training ground on Monday, Jibrin praised the players’ efforts and reaffirmed his commitment to helping the club achieve promotion to the NPFL.

“My vision is to see this club among the top teams in Nigeria and eventually in the world,” he said. “By the grace of God, I will support you in every possible way to gain promotion to the NPFL.”

Barau FC qualified for Conference C alongside Wikki Tourists.