Davidson Owumi, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, has exclusively told Completesports.com that the organisers of the domestic top flight will dispatch two trophies to Port Harcourt and Lagos — the two centres likely to produce the champions of the 2025/2026 season.
In Port Harcourt, Rivers United, who are second on the table going into Sunday’s Matchday 38 fixtures, will host Katsina United. In Lagos, specifically at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Ikorodu City will host league leaders Rangers International.
NPFL Title Race Goes Down To Final Day
A win for Rangers will automatically crown the Coal City Flying Antelopes champions of the 2025/2026 season, irrespective of the outcome of the Rivers United versus Katsina United clash at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Sports Complex, Port Harcourt.
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However, a win for Rivers United coupled with either a draw or defeat for Rangers will see the Pride of Rivers emerge champions of the 2025/2026 campaign.
Rangers currently top the standings with 65 points, while Rivers United sit second with 64 points ahead of the final round of matches scheduled for Sunday, 24 May 2026.
Organisers Prepare Two Trophy Venues
The situation has presented the NPFL management with a huge organisational and logistical challenge, with Owumi — fondly remembered during his playing days as ‘Okada Air’ — revealing that a trophy each will be taken to the two potential title venues.
“As we speak, we at the NPFL are putting heads together regarding the final matches of the season,” Owumi began.
The former Nigeria international added: “We’ve two centres likely to produce the champions of the season, so we’re working on taking a trophy each to Port Harcourt and Lagos, which are the two venues where the winners could emerge.”
Owumi Reflects On Successful NPFL Season
Owumi expressed delight when asked about the success recorded in organising a memorable campaign which, for the first time in recent memory, will end on the same day as the English Premier League season finale.
“It’s always difficult to right an old wrong. And while trying to do the right things, not many will see it, but will instead want the old order to remain.
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“But with dedication, hard work and commitment, we’re where we are today. And no one is even interested in how we got here. But we insisted the right thing must be done at all times.”
Away Wins Highlight Improved NPFL Competitiveness
Owumi further revealed that the growing competitiveness of the league is reflected in the number of away victories recorded this season.
“As at Matchday 37, we recorded 44 away wins. It has never happened before. We’ll continue to drive for excellence.
“You just said the 2025/2026 NPFL season is ending on the same day, 24 May 2026, as the English Premier League. We believe more innovations will come.
“When the right things are done, more successes will follow. Investors in sponsorship areas will come, and the Nigerian league and football in general will be better for it,” Owumi concluded.
