NNL: President Federation Cup finalists, Abakaliki United, relegated
Abakaliki United’s 2025 season has been a tale of highs and lows. The Ebonyi-based club, known as the Rice Boys, captured national attention by reaching the final of the President Federation Cup, where they will face Kwara United in a bid for silverware. Yet, their fairytale run in the cup competition starkly contrasts their struggles in the Nigerian National League (NNL), as they are among eight teams relegated at the close of the 2024/2025 season.
The club’s relegation follows a disappointing league campaign, which saw them finish among the bottom teams in Conference A. They drop down to the third tier alongside Madiba FC (Lagos) and Gateway United (Abeokuta) from the same conference.
Meanwhile, Conference B sees the demotion of Ijele FC and Igbajo United, with 1472 FC (Lagos) withdrawn earlier in the season. Zamfara United and Adamawa United were also relegated from Conferences C and D, respectively.
NNL Chairman George Aluo confirmed the decision, explaining that the league’s Congress had agreed before the season began that eight teams would face relegation—three from Conference A, three from Conference B, and one each from Conferences C and D.
Despite their struggles in the league, Abakaliki United must now set their sights on the Federation Cup final, where they have an opportunity to end their season on a high note. However, concerns remain about squad depth, overall strategy, and their ability to navigate the challenges of second-division football next season.
Looking ahead, the NNL will maintain its 36-club structure for the 2025/2026 season, welcoming Lobi Stars, Heartland FC, Sunshine Stars, and Akwa United—all relegated from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
