The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has officially announced that the 2025/2026 season will commence on August 22, 2025, with the final round of matches scheduled for May 24, 2026.
Speaking at a press briefing, Gbenga Elegbeleye, chairman of the NPFL, emphasised the league’s commitment to maintaining a stable calendar.
“Today, we are also here to announce that the 2025/26 season will be commencing on August 22, 2025 and will be completed on May 24, 2026,” Elegbeleye declared.
“This is to maintain a calendar we have now established from the last season. This is the first time in many years, perhaps since the start of the new era Nigeria Premier Football League in 2005 — 20 years — that a date for kick-off and ending will be faithfully implemented. That is a commitment we made and a promise delivered.”
Elegbeleye hails NPFL just-concluded season
Elegbeleye, who previously served on the Nigeria Football Federation’s ethics and fair play committee, praised the standard of officiating in the just-concluded season, which saw Remo Stars clinch their maiden NPFL title.
“I’ve travelled around the world and witnessed some shocking officiating decisions – something you hardly see in the NPFL. That’s why I confidently say our referees are among the best globally,” he said.
Highlighting the growing international recognition of Nigerian referees, Elegbeleye added: “At the just concluded U-20 Championship in Egypt, a Nigerian referee was involved, and another has been shortlisted for the upcoming WAFCON. This shows clear progress.”
While acknowledging that improvements are still needed, he appealed to the media to continue playing their role in exposing irregularities and ensuring accountability within the league.
“There’s still room for improvement, but we’re growing. We also count on the media to help us highlight any irregularities and keep the league accountable,” he stated.
In the recently concluded season, NPFL referees awarded a total of 76 penalties across 380 matches, issued 1,380 yellow cards, and handed out 56 red cards.
