Akwa United of Uyo, 2021 champions of the NPFL, have been relegated from the elite division following a dramatic end to the 2024-25 season on Sunday, www.aclsports.com reports.
The Promise Keepers, who have been in the nation’s topflight for more than a decade since their last relegation, could not beat the drop this time around after losing 2-1 to Heartland in Owerri.
Akwa United’s run in the topflight saw them win two Federation Cup titles (2015, 2017), one NPFL title (2020-21 season), and one Super Cup title in 2015. It has been their most successful run in the elite division, but they will now play in the Nigeria National League in the 2025-26 season.
Despite the win for Heartland, the Naze Millionaires were also relegated after results went against them elsewhere. Heartland, who were also relegated last season, took over Beyond Limits’ slot due to a ruling from the league body, but have now suffered their fourth demotion in the last decade.
Akwa United and Heartland join Sunshine Stars and Lobi Stars as teams that have been relegated from the NPFL this season.
On the other hand, Niger Tornadoes have beaten the drop on the final day once again with a hard-fought 3-2 win over Kano Pillars in Kaduna.
Pillars went in front through Rabiu Ali’s goal, before Tornadoes scored three consecutive times through Godstime Joseph, Ismail Sarki, and Kufre Ebong to pull away before Naziru Auwalu Ibrahim’s consolation late on.
Other survivors on the final day include Katsina United and Elkanemi Warriors who defeated Kwara United and Sunshine Stars 1-0 respectively.
After the conclusion of the season where Remo Stars finished as champions, Rivers United finished second to also book their place in next season’s CAF Champions League. Abia Warriors finished third, and they will be playing in the CAF Confederation Cup alongside the winners of the President Federation Cup.
