The 2015/16 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) proved to be a historic one as Enugu Rangers finally ended their 32-year drought to clinch the title.
It turned out to be nightmare season for the likes of Warri Wolves, Heartland, Ikorodu United and Giwa FC who were demoted to the second tier of Nigerian football.
However, just when these four teams were wailing, three others were busy celebrating their promotion to the NPFL from the Nigeria National League (NNL).
With the last spot yet to be decided after the league body suspended final matches from division B2, here are the three teams already confirmed to play in the NPFL.
- Remo Stars
Remo Stars were the first of the three teams to book a place to the elite league next season from division B1. The Sky Blue Stars achieved that feat in grand style with one game to spare – beating COD United 2-0 on the road. They finished the campaign with a resounding 3-0 victory over Unicem Rovers – amassing an unbelievable 31 points from 14 games.
“I want to say thank you to everyone who have shown support to us, it can only be God,” club chairman, Kunle Sonami said.
“This is after five attempts; I am really overwhelmed by the show of love from all quarters. I am more motivated to do more especially in the NPFL. Another target has just been set today.”
- Gombe United
Gombe United are staging a comeback to the NPFL after suffering relegation in 2014. The Desert Scorpions beat Dream FC to top spot in division A2 with 28 points – one more than their closest rival. Gombe who lost four times in the league, were almost certain to drop points away at Supreme Court FC. But the Northern side stunned everyone with a well deserved 3-1 win in Abuja.
- Katsina United
For Katsina United, it’s a return to the elite league after more than a decade in the lower ranks. Coming into the final league game of the season, Mighty Jets were in pole position to qualify for the NPFL with 25 points, two more than Katsina. However, Jets 2-0 defeat at Jigawa Golden Stars and a 1-0 victory for Katsina against Kogi United ensured the Northern club finished on top.
“We are really happy that after 14 years in the lower divisions, we are back to where we rightly belong. This is no doubt as a result of the immense support we received from His Excellency, Governor Aminu Masari,” club chairman, Alhaji Aminu Balele Kurfi stated.
