The Nationwide League One (NLO) has unveiled the highly anticipated fixture schedule for the Division One Promotion Playoffs across eight venues nationwide. With only eight precious tickets to the Nigeria National League (NNL) up for grabs, the 32 participating teams are gearing up for a battle that promises to be both thrilling and unpredictable.
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Slot 1: Ijebu Ode Stadium, Ogun State
At the Ijebu Ode Stadium, Magic Stars—last season’s promoted team that traded their NNL slot—will face Okaka FC, who secured their playoff spot following a match-fixing scandal that rocked the Maracana Pitch B venue during the regular season. Later in the day, Ikorodu City Football Academy will lock horns with Lekki United in what promises to be a fierce Lagos derby in the opening matchday. The full fixture can be assessed at the NLO X Page.
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Slot 2: Adamasingba Stadium, Ibadan
Originally slated for the Legacy Pitch in Lagos, Slot 2 has been moved to the neutral ground of Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan, Oyo State. This slot features Real Sapphire and Joy Cometh from Lagos, alongside FC Ebedei and Stormers of Ogun State. Notably, while Real Sapphire are newcomers to this level, the other three clubs have all had stints in the NNL, with Stormers even reaching the NPFL promotion playoffs in Asaba three seasons ago before sliding back to the NLO.
Slot 3: Sagamu Stadium, Ogun State
Slot 3 at Sagamu Stadium features a diverse mix: Morak FC, Karim Adeyemi FC, Hammola FC, and Ekiti United. Interestingly, Ekiti United is the only side here with past NNL experience, adding an extra edge to the competition.
Slot 4: Sharks Stadium, Port Harcourt
Port Harcourt’s Sharks Stadium will play host to E-World FC, Ozalla FC, FC One Rocket (relegated from the NNL two seasons ago), and Ahudiyannema. The battle here promises fireworks as FC One Rocket seek redemption after their past misstep.
Slot 5: Bwari Stadium, Abuja
In the Federal Capital Territory, Bwari Stadium will stage clashes between NA Royal FC, House of Prayer, Zeal Minds, and Mai Kunkele United. Each of these teams is eager to stake their claim for a ticket to the second tier of Nigerian football.
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Slot 6: Lafia Stadium, Nasarawa
Lafia Stadium will see Vet Rovers FC, City FC, FWC FC, and Campro FC vying for a single slot. These teams are known for their doggedness and local rivalries, making this venue one to watch.
Slot 7: Jos Stadium, Plateau State
Jos Stadium in Plateau State hosts Warinue FC, Kaduna United FC—who once played in the NPFL—AVM FC, and DMD FC. Kaduna United’s top-flight history makes them an exciting team to follow.
Slot 8: Gumel Stadium, Jigawa State
Finally, in Gumel Stadium, Discovery Academy, Clever Warriors FC, JNR Damburam FC, and Kano Ambassadors will battle it out for the last of the eight coveted NNL spots.
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As the playoffs unfold, only eight of these 32 ambitious sides will earn the right to ply their trade in the NNL next season. By June 15th, the Southern playoffs will conclude, while the Northern slots will be decided by June 22nd.
Which teams will rise to the occasion and secure promotion? Stay tuned for updates as the journey to the NNL intensifies.
