Reigning Nigeria Premier Football League champions Remo Stars will begin their 2025/26 title defence with a high-profile home fixture against Rivers United at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, setting the tone for an electrifying new season.
The official draw ceremony for the upcoming NPFL campaign took place in Abuja on Monday, unveiling a packed Matchday One schedule that promises competitive action from the outset.
Fresh off their maiden league title triumph last season, Remo Stars will be aiming to make history by becoming the first team to retain the NPFL crown since Kano Pillars completed a hat-trick of titles between 2012 and 2014.
Another standout fixture on opening weekend sees last season’s third-placed finishers, Abia Warriors, face a tough test against Kano Pillars. The Pillars will feature under fresh leadership following the recent appointment of Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa as General Manager.
Among the newly promoted clubs, FC Barau will mark their NPFL debut with a challenging clash against record champions Enyimba, while Wikki Tourists host Plateau United in Bauchi.
Warri Wolves kick off their return to the topflight with an away match against Katsina United, and Kun Khalifat, also making their NPFL debut, will head to Enugu to take on the formidable Rangers International.
Other fixtures scheduled for Matchday One include:
- Kwara United vs Ikorodu United in Ilorin
- El-Kanemi Warriors vs Bendel Insurance
- Shooting Stars vs Bayelsa United in Ibadan
- Niger Tornadoes vs Nasarawa United
The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League season is tentatively scheduled to kick off on August 22, subject to final confirmation.
With new faces, managerial changes, and fierce rivalries reignited, the upcoming NPFL season is already shaping up to deliver drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments across the nation.
