2025 President Federation Cup finalists, Abakaliki United, have been relegated from the Nigerian National League (NNL), despite their impressive cup run this season.
The “Rice Boys,” who are set to face Kwara United in the prestigious cup final, are among eight teams demoted at the conclusion of the 2024/2025 NNL season.
Abakaliki United’s drop comes alongside fellow Conference A sides Madiba FC of Lagos and Gateway United of Abeokuta.
From Conference B, Ijele FC and Igbajo United went down alongside 1472 FC of Lagos who failed to maintain their status, as they had earlier been withdrawn from the League.
In Conference C, Zamfara United suffered relegation, while Conference D side Adamawa United also lost their place in the second-tier league.
Speaking on the development, Chairman of the Nigerian National League, George Aluo, confirmed the relegations were carried out in line with the decisions made at the last NNL Congress held in Bauchi.
“At the AGM before the start of the season, it was unanimously agreed that eight teams would be relegated at the end of the season—three from Conference A, three from Conference B, and one each from Conferences C and D,” Aluo stated.
As things stand, the NNL would still have 36 teams next season.
It would be noted that the quartet of Lobi Stars, Heartland FC, Sunshine Stars and Akwa United would be campaigning in the NNL next season having been relegated from the NPFL this term.
