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Warri Wolves Football Club have been crowned champions of the 2025 Nigeria National League (NNL) after a dramatic 3–2 victory over Wikki Tourists in a fiercely contested final played at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State, on Saturday.
The victory capped a remarkable campaign for the Seasiders, who not only sealed their return to top-flight football but also claimed the NNL title in style.
Blistering Start Sets the Tone
Warri Wolves came flying out of the blocks in the final, producing a high-intensity, attacking display that stunned Wikki Tourists in the opening half hour. Lateef Yusuf opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a clinical finish following a swift counterattack. Just six minutes later, Igbunu Evwierhurhoma doubled the lead, capitalising on a defensive mix-up to slot home. The third goal came in the 31st minute, as Efe Yarherhe fired in a superb strike from the edge of the box to make it 3–0.
The early blitz left Wikki Tourists reeling, but they regrouped and gradually grew into the game.
Wikki’s Brave Fightback Falls Short
Mahmood Aliyu gave Wikki Tourists a lifeline just before halftime with a composed finish after a well-worked team move. Buoyed by the goal, the Bauchi-based side returned for the second half with renewed purpose and intensity. Their persistence paid off in the 52nd minute when Wonderson converted from close range to make it 3–2.
With momentum on their side, Wikki Tourists pushed hard for an equaliser, but Warri Wolves’ defence, marshalled by captain Emmanuel Etekere, held firm under pressure. Goalkeeper Solomon Bamidele also made a series of crucial saves to preserve the lead.
A Fitting End to a Competitive Super 8
The final brought an exciting conclusion to the NNL Super 8 tournament, held from July 5 to 12. The event featured eight top-performing teams from the 2024/2025 NNL season, divided into Northern and Southern conferences.
In addition to Warri Wolves and Wikki Tourists, other participating teams included:
Barau FC, Kun Khalifat FC, Doma United, Yobe Desert Stars FC, Crown FC and Osun United.
The competition showcased the depth of talent in Nigeria’s second-tier league and was praised for its organisation and competitive balance.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The final attracted notable dignitaries, including Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, who was represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme. Also in attendance were former Minister of Sports Development, Hon. Sunday Dare, NNL Chairman George Aluo, and senior officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
In his remarks, Onyeme praised both finalists for their performance and reaffirmed the Delta State Government’s commitment to sports development.
Wolves Return to the NPFL
With the win, Warri Wolves not only walked away with the prestigious NNL trophy and a N5 million cash prize but also earned one of four promotion spots to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), sealing a long-awaited return to the top tier after more than four years in the wilderness.
They are joined in promotion by:
Wikki Tourists FC (Northern Conference) Barau FC (Northern Conference) Kun Khalifat FC (Southern Conference)
Aluo Hails Progress, Vows More Reforms
Speaking after the final, NNL Chairman George Aluo expressed pride in the standard of competition and credited the success of the Super 8 to reforms initiated by the current league administration.
“This final reflects the progress we’ve made. From match transparency to improved officiating and club discipline, the NNL is moving in the right direction,” Aluo said.
He pledged to build on the gains of the season and further professionalize the league, stating that the NNL remains a vital breeding ground for Nigeria’s footballing future.