The 2024/25 Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) season kicks off with a flurry of activity, headlined by a clash between reigning champions Edo Queens and Abia Angels. This marquee matchup, broadcast live on NTA Sports 24, will take place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City. Edo Queens, fresh off their inaugural league title victory at the Super 6 tournament and a fourth-place finish at the CAF Women’s Champions League, face the challenge of defending their title in a competitive Group A, which also houses formidable opponents like Rivers Angels and Delta Queens. The opening week sees a full slate of matches across both groups, setting the stage for an exciting season of women’s football.
Group A’s opening fixtures see a geographically diverse range of contests. Remo Stars Ladies commence their campaign against Confluence Queens in Lokoja, while Nasarawa Amazons host Dannaz Ladies. Ekiti Queens and Heartland Queens will lock horns at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado-Ekiti. The diverse locations and matchups promise an engaging start to the season, showcasing the nationwide reach and talent pool of the NWFL. These early games will be crucial in establishing the pecking order within the group and setting the tone for the teams’ respective campaigns.
Group B is equally packed with intriguing encounters. Former champions Bayelsa Queens and Delta Queens will renew their rivalry in Yenagoa, guaranteeing a high-stakes match from the outset. Benue Queens, formerly known as Honey Badgers, welcome Lagos-based FC Robo, while Adamawa Queens and Abuja-based Naija Ratels face off. The final Group B fixture sees seven-time champions Rivers Angels hosting Ibom Angels, a match that will draw attention to Rivers Angels’ new signings and their quest to reclaim their dominant position in the league.
The anticipation for the new season is amplified by the high-profile player unveilings by several teams, most notably Rivers Angels and Remo Stars Ladies. Rivers Angels have bolstered their squad with 14 new players, including Flamingos captain Taiwo Afolabi, who made a high-profile switch from Delta Queens, and goalkeeper Fatima Oloko, whose unique style and presence have already generated significant buzz on social media. Oloko’s arrival adds a layer of intrigue to the Rivers Angels’ campaign, as she looks to translate her online popularity into impactful on-field performances.
Oloko’s signing embodies the growing intersection of athleticism and personality in women’s football. Her social media presence, coupled with her stated commitment to matching the attention with strong performances, demonstrates a savvy understanding of the modern sporting landscape. Her journey from facing discouragement to achieving professional status serves as an inspiration, highlighting the importance of perseverance and self-belief in pursuing one’s dreams. It will be interesting to observe how she adapts to the pressures of the NWFL and contributes to Rivers Angels’ ambitions.
Meanwhile, Remo Stars Ladies have generated excitement with the signing of UNILAG student Subomi Ogundele. Ogundele’s story represents a growing trend of student-athletes successfully balancing academic pursuits with professional sporting careers. Her achievements in representing UNILAG, including winning the NUGA games MVP and highest goal scorer awards, underscore her talent and dedication. Her signing signifies a positive development for the league, showcasing the possibility of combining education and professional sport, potentially inspiring other young athletes to follow suit. Her transition to the professional ranks will be closely watched as she embarks on this new chapter in her football journey. The league benefits from highlighting such stories, promoting the holistic development of athletes and showcasing the league as a platform for both sporting and personal growth.
