As the Nigeria Premier Football League season edges toward its conclusion, the fiercest contest has shifted to the bottom of the table, where survival has become the ultimate prize. Nearly ten teams remain locked in a tense relegation scrap, with safety far from guaranteed until the final day—adding a gripping twist to the campaign
.In a season defined by unpredictability, no fewer than four former champions are entangled in the survival fight with just six matches left. Remo Stars F.C., buoyed by last weekend’s 3-1 victory over fellow strugglers Kwara United F.C., knew the importance of avoiding defeat in Maiduguri. They fell behind early to Yusuf Adewale’s 7th-minute strike, but talisman Victor Mbaoma restored parity in the 36th minute, ensuring they left with a valuable point.
In Aba, it was a contest befitting A Tale of Two Cities—a clash of contrasting ambitions. Enyimba F.C. were desperate to pull clear of the relegation zone, while Abia Warriors F.C. sought to strengthen their continental push. The former champions emerged 2-1 victors in a nervy encounter. Chidera Michael gave Enyimba the lead in the 60th minute, before Emeka Obioma equalised late on. However, Chidera held his nerve to convert a decisive 90th-minute penalty and secure all three points.
At the Lekan Salami Stadium, Shooting Stars S.C. delivered a commanding 3-1 victory over title-chasing Enugu Rangers. Sodiq Ibrahim opened the scoring in the 50th minute, Chidiebere Nwobodo equalised, but goals from Desmond Ojietefian and Adams Mustapha sealed an emphatic win for the Oluyole Warriors.A similar scoreline was recorded in Yenagoa, where Bayelsa United F.C. overwhelmed Kano Pillars F.C. 4-1 in a dominant display.
Niger Tornadoes F.C. responded strongly to their previous defeat, easing past Wikki Tourists F.C. 2-0. Abdulrasheed Shehu Dabai converted from the penalty spot in the 80th minute, while Terdoo Shimagande added a late header to seal the win.
At the top end of the table, Rivers United F.C. staged a remarkable comeback to reclaim first place. Despite taking an early lead through Okon Aniekeme, they fell 2-1 behind following goals from Abdulradiu Omolabi and Sunday Adehi. However, Douglas Iyowuna restored parity almost immediately before the break, Handsome Surveyor put them ahead, and Iyowuna completed his brace to secure a 4-2 victory.Meanwhile, Ikorodu City F.C. were pushed to the limit in a thrilling 4-3 win over Warri Wolves F.C., underlining their resilience.
Elsewhere, Barau F.C. were held to a draw by Katsina United F.C., rounding off a weekend rich in drama and significance.With just weeks remaining, the NPFL relegation battle continues to intensify—promising a dramatic and unpredictable finish to the season.