The Nigeria National League (NNL) Board has officially extended the resumption date for the second stanza of the 2024/2025 season, granting clubs an additional two weeks before league action resumes.
Revised Schedule Announced
In a circular sent to all participating clubs, the NNL confirmed that the league’s second half will now kick off on April 4, 2025, instead of the initially scheduled March 21, 2025. The league’s mid-season break will officially conclude on March 20, 2025, allowing teams ample time to prepare for the restart.
Taking to Facebook, the NNL Board clarified the decision:
“The Nigeria National League (NNL) has shifted the start of the second half of the 2024/2025 league season to now commence on the first weekend of April (4th, 5th, and 6th), instead of Friday, March 21, as previously announced. Circulars to this effect have already been sent to all clubs and State Football Associations concerned.”
Ramadan Consideration & League Apology
The rescheduling aligns with the ongoing Islamic Ramadan fasting, allowing Muslim players and officials to observe the holy period without disruptions. The NNL Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Ayo Abdulrahaman, extended his best wishes to Muslim faithful as they near the completion of fasting and prepare for Sallah celebrations.
Acknowledging the inconvenience caused by the adjustment, Dr. Abdulrahaman expressed regrets to clubs and stakeholders, assuring them that the decision was taken in the best interest of the competition.
NNL Promotion Race Heats Up
As the second tier of Nigerian football, the Nigeria National League plays a pivotal role in the country’s football system, sitting just below the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). The 2024/2025 season features 36 clubs vying for promotion, with only four teams securing a place in the top flight via the NNL Super 8 playoffs.
At the mid-season break, Crown FC, Warri Wolves, Kun Khalifa, and Osun United lead the charge in the Southern Conference Groups A & B after 10 matches. Meanwhile, in the Northern Conference, Wikki Tourists, Mighty Jets, Yobe Desert Stars, and Doma United hold the automatic playoff spots after seven games in the respective two groups.
With the extended break providing teams more time to prepare, the battle for NPFL promotion is expected to intensify as the season resumes in April.
