The NPFL campaign, which marks the 54th edition of Nigeria’s top-flight league and the 36th since its professionalisation, promises fierce competition and drama nationwide.

The curtain-raiser will see defending champions Remo Stars FC lock horns with Rivers United FC at the Remo Stars Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 4:00 pm on Friday, August 22.

Fans are already buzzing with anticipation as the Sky Blue Stars look to begin their title defence against one of the league’s most consistent contenders.

In a historic twist, this season will feature four privately owned clubs, the highest number since 2019. Remo Stars, Ikorodu City, Barau FC, and Kun Khalifat FC.

The full list of 20 teams competing in the 2025/26 NPFL includes:

Abia Warriors

Barau FC

Bayelsa United

Bendel Insurance

El-Kanemi Warriors

Enugu Rangers

Enyimba International

Ikorodu City

Katsina United

Kun Khalifat

Kwara United

Nasarawa United

Niger Tornadoes

Plateau United

Remo Stars

Rivers United

Shooting Stars

Warri Wolves

Wikki Tourists

NPFL 2025/26 – Matchday 1 Fixtures

Friday, 22 August 2025

4 p.m. – Remo Stars vs Rivers United

Sunday, 24 August 2025

4 p.m. – Niger Tornadoes vs Nasarawa United

4 p.m. – Kwara United vs Ikorodu City

4 p.m. – Abia Warriors vs Kano Pillars

4 p.m. – Wikki Tourists vs Plateau United

4 p.m. – Enugu Rangers vs Kun Khalifat

4 p.m. – Katsina United vs Warri Wolves

4 p.m. – El-Kanemi Warriors vs Bendel

4 p.m. – Shooting Stars vs Bayelsa United

4 p.m. – Barau vs Enyimba

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