Nigerian Football
Nigeria Football Federation Clocks 84, But They Don’t Know
BY KUNLE SOLAJA.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is 84 this Monday, even though officially, the body thinks it is 72 on an unknown date this year as reflected in its emblem.
As it is this year, the anniversary of Nigeria’s football governing body has always passed unnoticed, owing to improper record keeping which has made its officials to erroneously take the body’s foundation to be an undisclosed day in 1945.
“Founded 1945” now adorns the badge of the NFF. But no fact exists to back up the 1945 dateless claim, except the general belief that the Governor’s Cup which changed to Challenge Cup, later the Coca-Cola FA Cup and the Federation Cup and now AITEO was instituted that year by the then NFA.
Efforts to enunciate the facts on what was previously known as the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) to the successive boards since 2003 had always been rebuffed. Verifiable archival materials have revealed that the NFF was founded at 7pm on Monday August 21, 1933, at house number 42, Broad Street, Lagos. The building still exists.
All the facts on the actual foundation date are verifiable and still exist. The facts were passed to the penultimate former Minister of Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi and the immediate former NFF president, Alhaji Aminu Maigari as well as his successor.
All are possibly still studying the documents presented to them. The documents had earlier been presented to the last two regimes of the then NFA/NFF – Ibrahim Galadima and Sani Ahmed Lulu as well as a former minister of Sports, Abdulrahman Hassan Gimba in 2008.
A presentation of the documents was made to the Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima-led NFA board on April 9, 2003. This was followed by a similar presentation to Alhaji Sani Lulu board on March 6, 2007, at the Lagos liaison office of the NFF.
There is no official reaction as all just promised to look into the documents. Alhaji Aminu Maigari was more receptive to dig a little bit into the documented evidences provided, but he was overwhelmed by the crisis that trailed the tail end of his tenure.
The current NFF president, Amaju Pinnick also has the documents since June 7, but no official reaction at the moment.
Most of the evidences on the actual foundation date of the Nigerian football governing body can be found at the Department of National Archives at the University of Ibadan.
The August 21, 1933 edition of the Nigerian Daily Times, which later changed to Daily Times, carried the advertisement of the meeting of football enthusiasts who planned to form a central organisation to be named Nigeria Football Association.
It called on interested people to attend. The venue was the Health Office, 42 Broad Street, Lagos. The building still exists as the Lagos Island Local Government Primary Health Clinic.
Four days later, the foundation of the NFA was reported in the Nigerian Daily Times of Friday, August 25, 1933, under the headline: “Nigeria Football Association.”
It was reported that 30 delegates attended the foundation of the NFA. One Henry A. Porter was appointed the first ever NFA boss.
He went by the title: ‘President.’ Porter was also the founding chairman of the LDAFA (now Lagos FA) in 1932, and secretary of the Public Works Department (PWD) club.
Other pioneer officials of the then NFA included three vice presidents –Adeyemo Alakija, Dr. Isaac Ladipo Oluwole and Baron Frederick Mulford (a white expatriate fondly called Baba Eko).
Joseph Mead was the pioneer secretary. According to the newspaper report, the NFA had 10 affiliated clubs at its foundation. They were Abeokuta and nine Lagos teams that accepted to become parent clubs. The nine founding parent clubs were Afric, Olympics, Health, PWD, Muslims, Railway Institute, Marine, Spalding and UAC.
The only definite refusal among Lagos- based clubs to become a parent club was the Police club which argued that a national association was an approach towards professionalism.
At that time, even up to the 1950s, professional football was scornfully regarded. For instance, in an article in the Sunday Times of September, 20 1953, NFA Secretary, R.B. Allen, never hid his hatred for professional football as it was regarded as capable of corrupting players.
The maiden annual general meeting of the NFA was fixed for January 1934. But it did not hold until Monday, February19, 1934. The half page uptight positioned report of the first annual general meeting of body was published in the Nigerian Daily Times edition of February 22, 1934, which is also available at the Department of National Archives at the University of Ibadan.
The secretary, Mead, complained that the response to invitations issued to clubs and districts to become members was poor.
He read a report dealing with efforts to popularise the idea of a national association. Mead stated that principal centres had been contracted on the aims and objectives of the NFA. But it seemed it was not a popular idea.
The newspaper account of the first Annual General Meeting of the then NFA revealed that the only definite acceptance of invitation to become district associations was from Abeokuta, Lagos Amateur and Lagos European Amateur Associations while Ijebu Ode promised to inaugurate a district association and league in the following season.
But more significantly, Mead reportedly told the meeting that an application had been forwarded to The Football Association (The FA) in London for affiliation.
That led to another opening in the search for the true origin of what is now known as the NFF. A letter was dispatched to The Football Association in England by this reporter.
David Berber, the Public Affairs Officer at The FA in a response dated April 2, 1996, wrote in part: “I can advise that the name of the Nigeria Football Association first appeared in the FA Handbook for the season 1938-39 in the list of our affiliated associations. The NFA secretary at that time was F.B Mulford, with a Lagos address.”
That is an indication that the body had existed before 1945. Then a visit to the offices of the oldest football body in the world which will, on October 26, celebrate its 154th anniversary resulted in more startling revelations.
By Kunle Solaja.
The Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) season is heading for a dramatic climax, with both the title race and relegation dogfight finely poised following Matchday 34 fixtures.
At the top of the table, the contest for supremacy has tightened into a two-horse race between Enugu Rangers and Rivers United FC, who are locked on 55 points apiece after 33 matches. Rangers currently hold a superior goal difference (+15), giving them a slender edge in what promises to be a thrilling finish.
Rivers United, however, have a crucial opportunity to seize control when they host Plateau United FC, knowing that any slip by Rangers could swing momentum decisively in their favour. Rangers themselves face a tricky away tie against Niger Tornadoes FC, a side battling to steer clear of relegation trouble.
Just behind the leading duo, Ikorodu City FC and Abia Warriors FC remain within striking distance on 52 points. However, Abia Warriors suffered a setback with a 1-0 defeat to Bendel Insurance FC on Saturday, a result that not only boosted Insurance’s push into the top half but also dented Abia’s title ambitions.
Nasarawa United FC and Shooting Stars Sports Club, both on 50 points, are still mathematically in the race but may need near-perfect finishes and favourable results elsewhere to challenge for the top three positions. Shooting Stars face a pivotal clash against Kwara United, a fixture that carries significance at both ends of the table.
Relegation Battle Heats Up
While the title race grabs headlines, the struggle for survival is even more intense, with several clubs separated by just a few points at the bottom.
Kun Khalifat FC prop up the table with 36 points and face a must-win encounter against Warri Wolves. Anything less than victory could leave their survival hopes hanging by a thread.
Just above them, Wikki Tourists FC (37 points) and Kwara United (39 points, with a points deduction) are also in danger. Kwara United’s clash with Shooting Stars could prove decisive, while Wikki Tourists face a tough trip to Bayelsa United, another side not yet safe.
The relegation scrap extends further up the table, with Remo Stars, Bayelsa United, and Enyimba all hovering around the 40-point mark. Remo Stars face a daunting test against high-flying Barau FC, while Enyimba must navigate a tricky fixture against Katsina United FC.
Even traditionally strong sides like Kano Pillars and Niger Tornadoes FC are not entirely safe, highlighting the depth of the relegation battle this season.
Season Reaches Boiling Point
With just a handful of matches remaining, every fixture now carries enormous weight. The title contenders must maintain consistency under pressure, while those at the bottom are fighting for survival with equal desperation.
From the summit clash between Rangers and Rivers United to the survival scrap involving nearly half the table, the NPFL is set for a pulsating finale where both glory and heartbreak remain very much on the line.
MatchDay 34 Fixtures
Saturday, April 11, 2026
- Bendel Insurance 1-0 Abia Warriors
Sunday, April 12, 2026
- Shooting Stars V Kwara United
- Barau FC v Remo Stars
- Niger Tornadoes V Enugu Rangers
- Enyimba V Katsina United
- Bayelsa United V Wikki Tourists
- Ikorodu City V Kano Pillars
- Rivers United V Plateau United
- Kun Khalifat Fc V Warri Wolves
Monday, April 13, 2026
- El-Kanemi Warriors V Nasarawa United
| CLUBS | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
| 1 | Rangers International FC | 33 | 15 | 10 | 8 | 39 | 24 | 15 | 55 |
| 2 | Rivers United FC | 33 | 15 | 10 | 8 | 33 | 27 | 6 | 55 |
| 3 | Ikorodu City FC | 33 | 14 | 10 | 9 | 34 | 30 | 4 | 52 |
| 4 | Abia Warriors FC | 34 | 15 | 7 | 12 | 28 | 26 | 2 | 52 |
| 5 | Nasarawa United FC | 33 | 14 | 8 | 11 | 31 | 27 | 4 | 50 |
| 6 | Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) | 33 | 15 | 5 | 13 | 35 | 36 | -1 | 50 |
| 7 | Bendel Insurance FC | 34 | 12 | 13 | 9 | 39 | 34 | 5 | 49 |
| 8 | Plateau United FC | 33 | 14 | 4 | 15 | 37 | 36 | 1 | 46 |
| 9 | Katsina United FC | 33 | 12 | 10 | 11 | 29 | 29 | 0 | 46 |
| 10 | Warri Wolves | 33 | 11 | 10 | 12 | 33 | 33 | 0 | 43 |
| 11 | Barau FC | 33 | 10 | 13 | 10 | 25 | 26 | -1 | 43 |
| 12 | El-Kanemi Warriors FC | 33 | 12 | 7 | 14 | 28 | 38 | -10 | 43 |
| 13 | Niger Tornadoes FC | 33 | 12 | 6 | 15 | 34 | 31 | 3 | 42 |
| 14 | Kano Pillars (-3pts, -3 goals) | 33 | 13 | 6 | 14 | 30 | 32 | -2 | 42 |
| 15 | Enyimba FC | 33 | 10 | 10 | 13 | 35 | 37 | -2 | 40 |
| 16 | Bayelsa United FC | 33 | 10 | 10 | 13 | 30 | 34 | -4 | 40 |
| 17 | Remo Stars FC | 33 | 12 | 4 | 17 | 34 | 41 | -7 | 40 |
| 18 | Kwara United (-3pts, -3 goals) | 33 | 11 | 9 | 13 | 26 | 29 | -3 | 39 |
| 19 | Wikki Tourists FC | 33 | 8 | 13 | 12 | 30 | 37 | -7 | 37 |
| 20 | Kun Khalifat FC | 33 | 9 | 9 | 15 | 31 | 40 | -9 | 36 |
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Nigerian Football
NPFL Golden Boot Race: Obaje, Arumala Lead as Club-by-Club Breakdown Reveals Fierce Battle
By Kunle Solaja.
With the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season entering its decisive stretch after Matchday 33, the race for the Golden Boot has not only remained intensely competitive but also reflects the attacking strength—and in some cases dependence—of several clubs.
At the top of the chart, Godwin Obaje (Enugu Rangers) and Joseph Arumala (Ikorodu City) are tied on 11 goals, but a deeper club-by-club analysis shows contrasting attacking dynamics across the league.
Enugu Rangers: Obaje and Chidozie attacking edge
Rangers International stand out as the only club with two players in the top scorers’ bracket. Obaje’s 11 goals underline his role as the club’s primary finisher, but the presence of Iwundu Chidozie (9 goals) highlights a complementary attacking structure. Rangers’ ability to share goals between two reliable forwards could prove decisive both in the title race and in sustaining Obaje’s Golden Boot push.
Ikorodu City: Arumala’s breakout brilliance
For Ikorodu City, Joseph Arumala’s 11 goals represent more than just numbers; they define the club’s attacking identity. Unlike Rangers, Ikorodu City’s presence in the scoring chart is singular, suggesting a heavy reliance on Arumala. His continued form will be critical if the club is to maintain momentum in the closing weeks.
Katsina United: Collins carrying the torch
Uche Collins (10 goals) has been the standout performer for Katsina United. His contribution underscores a team that leans heavily on individual brilliance in attack. With no other teammate in the top scorers’ list, Collins remains central to Katsina’s offensive threat.
El-Kanemi Warriors: Abdulrahman’s consistency
Daddy Abdulrahman (10 goals) has provided El-Kanemi Warriors with a consistent source of goals. His tally reflects both durability and efficiency, especially in a side that has not spread its goals widely among multiple players.
Remo Stars: Mbaoma leading the charge
For Remo Stars, Victor Mbaoma (10 goals) continues to justify his reputation as a proven goal scorer. His presence among the top contenders is crucial for a team still balancing title ambitions with survival concerns in a surprisingly turbulent season.
Abia Warriors: Obioma’s attacking spearhead
Chukwuemeka Godson Obioma (10 goals) has emerged as Abia Warriors’ main outlet in front of goal. His performances highlight a system built around a focal striker capable of delivering in crucial moments.
Bendel Insurance: shared responsibility
Bendel Insurance boast a dual presence through Oweilayefa Alex (9 goals) and Kayode Oke (8 goals). This shared scoring responsibility reflects a more balanced attacking approach, reducing dependence on a single player and giving the team multiple goal threats.
Shooting Stars: depth in attack
Similarly, Shooting Stars have two players in the mix—Sodiq Ibrahim (9 goals) and Qamar Adegoke (8 goals). Their combined output suggests a diversified attacking system, which could be advantageous in the final run-in as defensive attention is split.
Wikki Tourist: Mairiga’s Lone Effort
Jonathan Mairiga’s return of nine goals underscores his role as Wikki Tourist’s primary attacking outlet this season. He is the club’s only player among the league’s leading scorers, highlighting a clear reliance on his finishing ability.
In a team where goals have not been widely shared, Mairiga has consistently shouldered the burden in the final third, often providing the decisive edge in tight matches. His contribution not only reflects personal form but also underlines Wikki Tourist’s need for greater attacking support as the season approaches its climax.
Warri Wolves: Evhierehurhoma’s impact
With Igbunu Evhierehurhoma (8 goals), Warri Wolves have relied on a single consistent scorer. His contributions have been vital in keeping the team competitive in tight matches.
Plateau United: Temitope’s steady return
Vincent Temitope (8 goals) has provided Plateau United with a dependable attacking outlet, maintaining relevance in the Golden Boot conversation despite not leading the chart.
Nasarawa United: Yusuf in contention
Anas Yusuf (8 goals) represents Nasarawa United’s attacking hopes, remaining within striking distance of the leaders in what could still become a late surge.
Enyimba: Michael flying the flag
For Enyimba, Chidera Michael (8 goals) is the club’s top performer in front of goal this season, reflecting a campaign where goals have not been heavily concentrated among multiple players.
A League Defined by Balance and Uncertainty
The distribution of top scorers across clubs reveals a league marked by competitive balance rather than dominance. While teams like Rangers, Bendel Insurance, and Shooting Stars benefit from multiple contributors, others depend heavily on a single talisman.
With just a few matches remaining, the Golden Boot race remains wide open. The narrow gap between first and the chasing pack means that a single prolific performance could dramatically alter the standings.
As the NPFL season heads toward its climax, the battle for top scorer is shaping up not just as an individual contest, but as a reflection of each club’s attacking philosophy—whether built on collective strength or individual brilliance.
Top goal scorers as of matchday games 33
S/N PLAYER’S NAME CLUB NAME TOTAL 1 Godwin Obaje Rangers Int’l 11 2 Joseph Arumala Ikorodu City 11 3 Uche Collins Katsina United 10 4 Daddy Abdulrahman El-kanemi Warriors 10 5 Victor Mbaoma Remo Stars 10 6 Chukwuemeka Godson Obioma Abia Warriors 10 7 Oweilayefa Alex Bendel Insurance 9 8 Iwundu Chidozie Rangers Int’l 9 9 Sodiq Ibrahim Shooting Stars 9 10 Jonathan Mairiga Wikki Tourist 9 11 Igbunu Evhierehurhoma Warri Wolves 8 12 Vincent Temitope Plateau United 8 13 Anas Yusuf Nasarawa United 8 14 Kayode Oke Bendel Insurance 8 15 Qamar Adegoke Shooting Stars 8 16 Chidera Michael Enyimba Int’l 8
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Players and officials of Nigeria’s U20 women’s national team, the Falconets, have resumed camping in Abuja as preparations intensify for the final round of qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
Several invited players arrived in camp on Monday, April 6, 2026, with full training sessions commencing the following day as the team began serious build-up toward the decisive fixtures. The technical crew has since engaged the squad in intensive drills focused on fitness, tactical organisation, and team cohesion, while awaiting the arrival of the remaining invitees.
At the team’s first training session, Head Coach Moses Aduku charged the players to approach the assignment with utmost seriousness, stressing the need for discipline, unity, and mental strength.
He reminded the squad of the magnitude of the task ahead as they prepared to confront a determined Malawi women’s national under-20 football team in the final qualifying round.
The players, in response, expressed confidence and readiness, with many eager to secure Nigeria’s place at the global tournament. Training sessions have continued at a high tempo, with the coaching crew keen on ensuring peak physical and tactical condition before the first leg.
Malawi booked their place in the final round after edging past Guinea-Bissau women’s national under-20 football team in their previous fixture, setting up what promises to be a keenly contested tie.
The Falconets will host the first leg in Nigeria on Saturday, May 2, before travelling for the return leg in Malawi a week later in a two-legged showdown that will determine qualification.
Africa will be represented by four teams at the tournament, scheduled to take place in Poland from September 5 to 26, 2026, adding further significance to the upcoming encounter for the Nigerian side, which is aiming to maintain its strong pedigree in global youth women’s football.
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