Sixteen Clubs Chase NWFL Premiership Promotion In Calabar
Promotion Race Begins in Calabar
THE battle for promotion to Nigeria’s top-flight women’s football league gets underway in Calabar as 16 ambitious clubs compete in the 2026 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Championship.
Running from 9 to 16 July, the tournament represents one of the most important competitions in Nigeria’s women’s football calendar, with only two clubs guaranteed promotion to the prestigious NWFL Premiership for the 2026/2027 season.
The competition is structured into four groups, with each group winner advancing to the semi-finals before the finalists secure promotion.
Confidence Runs High Among Contenders
Participating clubs have expressed optimism ahead of the competition, citing improved preparations, stronger squads and valuable experience gained from previous campaigns.
Unification FC captain Success Odey said the club intends not only to gain promotion but also to showcase the quality of its players on the national stage.
She noted that although the team faces strong opposition, the players are determined to collect maximum points and progress from the group stage.
Youth Development Drives Fortress Ladies
Fortress Ladies believe consistency and patience are about to yield results after consecutive near misses.
Coach Jimmy Aimuagbonrie said the club has maintained its commitment to nurturing young players while steadily strengthening the squad each season.
According to him, previous disappointments have provided useful lessons that could prove decisive in this year’s promotion race.
Ghetto Tigers Ready for Breakthrough
Ghetto Tigers Ladies are equally optimistic after improving their squad through competitive outings in major domestic competitions.
Captain Ruth Origbo believes the team possesses the discipline and confidence required to overcome any opponent, while Manager Azeez Mustapha said the players have matured significantly over the past two seasons.
He expressed confidence that the team’s improved balance and experience could finally earn them a place in the Premiership.
Elite League Tickets at Stake
The tournament brings together some of the country’s most competitive second-tier women’s clubs, including Delta Babes, Rangers Women, Pelican Stars, Kwara Ladies, Fortress Ladies, DreamStar Ladies, Gallant Queens and Ghetto Tigers Ladies, among others.
With promotion to the NWFL Premiership representing a significant milestone for clubs, players and coaches alike, the championship is expected to deliver an exciting week of high-quality football and intense competition as teams battle for the two coveted places in Nigeria’s top division.
