Elegbeleye Congratulates NPFL Clubs, Charges Winners to Represent Nigeria Well

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clubs have been commended for the successful completion of what has been described as a very impressive and competitive season.

Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye, in his remarks, said he considered the season highly successful as all clubs played to schedule, ensuring that match fixtures were followed from start to finish.

‘I am sending a heartfelt message of congratulations to all the 20 clubs, including those who won tickets to represent Nigeria and those that were unfortunate to be relegated. Together, we played to make the season a resounding success by competing till the last day,’ Elegbeleye stated.

He further charged the three clubs that secured continental tickets to begin earnest preparations for the CAF club competitions in order to give Nigeria a formidable presence next season.

‘The season may have ended, but going to play on the continent means that your preparation starts now. I charge you to change the narrative of the recent past to give the country a formidable presence again on the African club competitions,’ he added.

Rangers International of Enugu finished top of the table after Matchday 38 with a virtuoso 2-1 win in Lagos against Ikorodu City.

Rivers United secured second place with a 3-0 defeat of Katsina United, though it was not enough to upend Rangers, who could only have been overtaken if they had drawn or lost.

Ikorodu City’s defeat meant that Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) retained third place despite losing to Niger Tornadoes.

The three clubs will be joined by the winner of the President Federation Cup to represent Nigeria in CAF club competitions later in the year.

Meanwhile, Remo Stars, El-Kanemi Warriors, Bayelsa United, and Wikki Tourists were relegated at the end of the season.