As the 2025 Nationwide League One (NLO) season officially kicks off across Nigeria, clubs are setting their goals and preparing for what promises to be a fiercely competitive campaign. For Imperial Football Club, champions of the Ogun State 2025 Federation Cup, this new season is about more than just chasing promotion—it’s about building a sustainable football future from the ground up.
In an exclusive chat, the Director of Imperial FC, Mr. Bankole, shared the club’s mission for the season. “Our goal has always been centred on development and growth across every aspect of the organization,” the goal for us is always to see development and growth in every aspect of our team, especially with the players. We exist to produce players, and the way to do that is always to provide opportunities for them to develop, grow, and improve their game. Of course the aim is also to gain promotion, and we will see about that, he said. “We’re particularly focused on player development. Producing top-tier talent remains our identity, and to achieve that, we ensure our players get the right exposure, training, and opportunities to grow.”
While the ambition to secure promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL) is certainly on the horizon, the club remains grounded in its long-term philosophy. “Of course, the aim is also to gain promotion—and we’ll see how that unfolds during the season,” he added.
Imperial FC has continued its tradition of promoting homegrown talent. Several new faces have been added to the squad, with many players making the leap from the under-15 team to the senior side. “We are constantly evolving. Our U15 players are regularly draughted into the first team to begin their development journey and gain real-time match experience,” Bankole explained.
When asked about departures that might affect the team’s strength, he acknowledged that some players have moved on but emphasized the seamless transition built into the club’s structure. “Yes, a few players have left, but with our succession plan and the transition from the youth system, there’s always a steady flow of talent into the senior team. There’s really no gap.”
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On the matter of standout players to watch this season, the Director chose to keep the cards close to his chest. “There are quite a few standout players, but we won’t be giving opponents early scouting reports,” he said with a smile.
As for his message to the league organizers, he kept things brief but hinted at ongoing conversations. “There’s a lot we would like to share with the organizers, and we’ll engage with them in due time.”
With a proven youth structure, a clear developmental focus, and the confidence of recent silverware, Imperial FC is set to be one of the most intriguing teams to watch in the 2025 NLO One season.
