NFF President, Nasarawa Governor to Grace 2025/26 NNL Season Opener in Lafia

Excitement is in the air as top football dignitaries are set to attend the opening match of the 2025–26 Nigeria National League (NNL) season this weekend.

The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, and Nasarawa State Governor, Engineer Abdullahi Sule, will be the special guests of honour when FC Basira lock horns with Mighty Jets in a Conference C clash at the Lafia City Stadium.

According to the organizers, the new NNL season will officially kick off on Saturday with only one fixture, while matches from the remaining groups will commence a week later.

Warri Wolves head into the new campaign as defending champions, having lifted the 2024–25 NNL title after a thrilling season that showcased some of Nigeria’s brightest emerging talents.

💭 Opinion: A New Dawn for Nigeria’s Lower League Football

The presence of high-profile figures like the NFF President and the Nasarawa State Governor at the NNL opener is a refreshing sign of the growing attention being given to Nigeria’s second-tier football. For years, the NNL has been a breeding ground for raw talent—players who go on to shine in the NPFL, the Super Eagles, and even across Europe.

However, the league has also battled challenges ranging from poor funding to inadequate infrastructure and limited media coverage. This season’s opening, graced by top dignitaries, could mark the beginning of a renewed commitment to development, transparency, and structure in the NNL.

If Nigeria truly wants to build a sustainable football ecosystem, the NNL must thrive—because it’s the foundation upon which the nation’s football future rests.

With new energy, renewed leadership, and the spotlight turning toward Lafia this weekend, the 2025–26 NNL season might just be the spark that reignites belief in grassroots football across the country. 🌟⚽