President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Rangers International FC for winning the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title for a record ninth time, describing the achievement as a reward for consistency, history, and investment in youth development.

The statement was released on Monday through the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Rangers, based in Enugu, finished the 2025 campaign at the top of the table with 68 points from 38 matches, ahead of strong challengers Rivers United FC.

President Tinubu praised the players, coaches, and supporters of the club, while also reflecting on their rich history as one of Nigeria’s most successful football institutions. He recalled their dominance in the 1970s and 1980s, including major continental achievements such as reaching the African Cup of Champions Clubs final in 1975 and winning the African Cup Winners’ Cup in 1977.

“I must also congratulate Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State on the victory of Rangers International FC. This victory is an obvious fruit of his administration’s investments in youth and sports in the state. I commend him,” the President said.

He further praised Rangers’ legacy in producing top Nigerian talents who have gone on to represent the country at the highest level, while also commending Rivers United for their strong performance and sportsmanship throughout the season.

Both Rangers International FC and Rivers United will now represent Nigeria in next season’s CAF Champions League.

Opinion: A Win That Goes Beyond Football for Rangers

Rangers’ latest NPFL triumph is more than just another league title — it is a reminder of how deeply football is tied to identity, culture, and regional pride in Nigeria.

For a club with such a rich historical background, this ninth league title feels like a revival of legacy rather than a new achievement. It reconnects modern success with the golden eras of the 1970s and 1980s, when Rangers were not just dominant in Nigeria, but respected across Africa.

What stands out most is the symbolic support from the presidency, which highlights how football is increasingly being seen as part of national development rather than just entertainment. The mention of youth investment by the Enugu State government also points to a broader truth — sustained success in Nigerian football often depends on structured support, not just talent alone.

Rivers United’s strong challenge also deserves recognition. Healthy competition like this raises the standard of the league and ensures that dominance is earned, not assumed.

Ultimately, Rangers’ victory feels like a statement: Nigerian club football is still alive with history, passion, and the potential to grow even stronger if properly supported.