The 2023/2024 Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) season concluded with a thrilling Matchday 38, full of highs and lows for fans across the league. Enugu Rangers clinched their 8th league title, while Sporting Lagos were relegated in a dramatic end to the campaign.
Enugu Rangers, already assured of the championship, celebrated their title win with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Gombe United. Despite the away fixture, goals from Godwin Aguda and Daniel Cletus secured the win for the Flying Antelopes, sealing a historic season for the club.
In Uyo, Akwa United ensured their NPFL survival by defeating Rivers United 3-1. John Ubong opened the scoring and later added another, while Sani Suleiman’s goal put the match beyond doubt. Nwangwa Nyima’s late strike was mere consolation for Rivers United.
Bendel Insurance suffered a surprising 2-0 defeat at home to Bayelsa United at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, marking a disappointing end to their season. Meanwhile, relegated Doma United drew 1-1 with Abia Warriors, offering little solace in their final NPFL match for the foreseeable future.
At the Enyimba International Stadium, Mbaoma Chijioke secured the league’s Golden Boot with his 18th goal of the season, opening the scoring for Enyimba in their 2-0 win over Plateau United. Alade Balogun sealed the win, capping off a strong season for the People’s Elephant.
Kano Pillars delighted their home fans with a 3-2 victory over Lobi Stars. Adamu Musa’s brace and Ibrahim Nura’s goal gave Pillars a commanding lead, though Lobi’s second-half rally came up short.
Kwara United dominated Heartland FC with a resounding 4-0 victory, confirming Heartland’s relegation, while Niger Tornadoes triumphed 2-1 against Sunshine Stars in an intense encounter.
Remo Stars secured second place with a 2-1 win over Katsina United. Super Eagles star Ismail Sodiq and Dayo Ojo provided the goals for the home side, while Michael Okoro Ibe’s late goal could not salvage points for Katsina.
In a heartbreaking turn for Sporting Lagos, a first-half goal by Dumte Pyagbara ensured Shooting Stars’ 1-0 victory at the Lekan Salami Stadium, condemning Sporting Lagos to relegation from the NPFL.
As the curtain falls on this NPFL season, teams now look ahead to the next campaign, with hopes of glory, redemption, and survival.
