As the 2024/2025 Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) season approaches, football enthusiasts across the nation are eagerly speculating about potential champions. The NPFL has always been fiercely competitive, and the upcoming season promises to maintain this tradition. Let’s examine some of the top contenders and their prospects for clinching the coveted title.
Enyimba International FC: Known as “The People’s Elephants,” Enyimba boasts a rich history of NPFL success. With strong financial backing and an experienced squad, they remain perennial favorites. Their ability to attract top talent and maintain consistency throughout the season gives them a solid chance at adding another title to their impressive collection. Having won the 2022/2023 title and recently acquiring players like Moses Adukwu, Ani Chigozie, and Asibe Nathaniel, Enyimba stands as a strong contender for this season’s championship.
Rangers International: The “Flying Antelopes” have a storied history in Nigerian football. Despite experiencing ups and downs in recent years, their pedigree and passionate fan base keep them in contention. As the defending NPFL champions and one of Nigeria’s representatives in continental competitions, Rangers are among the favorites to retain their title.
Rivers United: The 2021/2022 NPFL champions, Rivers United, are eager to reclaim their crown. Known for tactical discipline and a strong defensive record, they’ve been one of the most consistent teams in recent years. Their ability to grind out results, even in tough away matches, has been key to their success. With a squad balancing experience and youth, the oil-rich club has the potential to challenge for the title again, especially if they can maintain their defensive solidity while improving their attacking prowess.
Remo Stars: As relative newcomers to the NPFL, Remo Stars have quickly established themselves as a rising force. With a strong emphasis on youth development and an attacking playing style, they could be the surprise package of the 2024/2025 season. Having finished second in the league for two consecutive seasons, they’ll be aiming to go one better this time. Their challenge will be maintaining consistency throughout a long season and handling the pressure of competing against more established teams.
Wild Cards:
Kano Pillars: “Sai Masu Gida” has always been a formidable team in Nigerian football. Their passionate fan base and home-ground advantage at the Sani Abacha Stadium make them tough opponents. After a disappointing previous season, Kano Pillars are looking to re-establish themselves as one of the top teams in Nigerian football, with management issues now reportedly resolved.
Plateau United: The Jos-based club has been on the verge of success in recent seasons, finishing 5th in 2023/2024. With their high-altitude training advantage and a core of talented young players, Plateau United could surprise many. They’ve bolstered their squad with 11 new signings, including Chukwuebuka Anthony, Ibe Chumakpa Micheal, and Adewale Adeyinka, which could strengthen their title bid.
Shooting Stars: A resurgent Shooting Stars could be the dark horse of the season. Under Gbenga Ogunbote’s leadership, they’ll look to build on the strong form they discovered in the latter half of last season, which nearly secured them a continental ticket. Having finished 4th in 2023/2024, they’ll be aiming even higher this season.
The 2024/2025 NPFL season promises to be an exciting and closely contested affair, with several teams having realistic chances of claiming the championship. As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to see which team can maintain their form and emerge as the champions of Nigerian football.
