NPFL Roundup: Enyimba, Rivers United, and Bayelsa United Shine as Kano Pillars Share the Spoils

It was a lively weekend in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) as fans across the country witnessed drama, early goals, and crucial victories.

In Aba, Enyimba International finally got their first win of the season, edging Niger Tornadoes 1-0. Joseph Abiodun settled the tie with a decisive strike as early as the sixth minute, ensuring the People’s Elephant gave their fans something to cheer after a slow start to the campaign.

At the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers United also got the job done, defeating Kwara United 1-0 courtesy of a composed finish from Ubong Friday in the 22nd minute. The Pride of Rivers are beginning to show the grit expected of a side with continental aspirations.

In Yenagoa, Bayelsa United continued their bright run with a convincing 2-0 win over Barau FC. Wisdom Magbisa and Ofem Nneoyi found the back of the net, sealing the Prosperity Boys’ second victory of the campaign and sending the home fans into wild celebrations at the Samson Siasia Stadium.

Meanwhile, in Kano, Pillars and Wikki Tourists battled to a 1-1 draw in a clash that had its own fair share of tension. Ahmed Lamido’s 12th-minute opener for Wikki was canceled out by Mustapha Umar’s equalizer on the stroke of half-time, leaving both sides to settle for a share of the points at the Sani Abacha Stadium.

Opinion:

This weekend’s NPFL action offered a perfect snapshot of what makes Nigerian football so compelling — unpredictability, passion, and a flair for early goals.

Enyimba’s breakthrough win might just be the confidence boost they need to rediscover their title-chasing identity. Rivers United, on the other hand, showed once again that they are not only tough at home but also efficient in grinding out results — a trait that could define their season.

Bayelsa United’s momentum is quietly building, and if they can maintain consistency, they might just become the dark horse of this campaign.

As for Kano Pillars and Wikki Tourists, the draw reflects both promise and frustration. Pillars’ fans, famous for their loyalty, will demand sharper finishing if Sai Masu Gida are to mount any serious challenge this season.

The NPFL is still young, but from Aba to Kano, the signs are clear: this season promises fireworks, rivalries, and plenty of drama that will keep fans glued to the action every matchday.