Adedokun Waliyu 
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Rangers International FC on winning the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title, describing the achievement as historic and a return to the club’s glorious past.
In a statement released through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised the club’s management, players, and supporters after Rangers finished top of the league with 68 points from 38 matches, narrowly ahead of Rivers United FC.
Tinubu recalled Rangers’ dominance during the 1970s and 1980s when the club became one of Africa’s strongest football teams. During that period, Rangers won several domestic league and FA Cup titles, reached the final of the African Cup of Champions Clubs in 1975, and won the African Cup Winners’ Cup in 1977.
The President also commended Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for supporting sports development and youth empowerment in the state.
“As one of the oldest clubs in Nigeria, Rangers have produced some of the nation’s finest football players who went on to make the country proud on the global stage. I am proud of their achievement,” Tinubu said.
He attributed part of the club’s success to continuous investment in youth development and sporting infrastructure.
Tinubu also praised Rivers United for their strong performance throughout the season and for showing good sportsmanship despite narrowly missing out on the title.
He wished both Rangers International FC and Rivers United success as they prepare to represent Nigeria in next season’s CAF Champions League.
Rangers secured the title after defeating Ikorodu City FC 2–1 on the final day of the season at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena. The victory gave Rangers their ninth league title, drawing level with Enyimba FC as the most successful clubs in NPFL history.
The final day of the season produced one of the most dramatic title races in recent NPFL history. Although Rivers United defeated Katsina United 3–0, it was not enough to overtake Rangers at the top of the table.
Defending champions Remo Stars FC were relegated after finishing 17th on the table. Elkanami Warriors, Bayelsa United FC, and Wikki Tourists FC were also relegated after ending the season in 18th, 19th, and 20th positions respectively.
