In a thrilling conclusion to the Nigeria National League (NNL) Super 8 play-off taking place in Asaba, Delta State, Wikki Tourists of Bauchi and Warri Wolves FC of Asaba, have successfully reclaimed their spots in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
They have earned their promotion alongside Barau FC of Kano and Kun Khalifa of Owerri.
Wikki Tourists clinched their return to the NPFL with an impressive 4-0 victory over Yobe Desert Stars during the third matchday of the 2024/2025 NNL Super 8 Play-offs at the Stephen Keshi Stadium on Thursday. The resounding win secured their top position in the Northern Conference group, finishing with five points, level with second-placed Barau FC, who triumphed 2-0 over Doma United in another match held simultaneously at Delta State University, Ozoro.
Leading up to this decisive encounter, Wikki Tourists had accrued just two points from their first two matches, while their opponents, Yobe Desert Warriors, had amassed four points. However, Wikki’s strong performance saw them score four goals in the first half, rendering Yobe Desert Stars powerless and allowing them to rise to the top of the Northern Conference table.
Meanwhile, Warri Wolves made their own return to the NPFL by defeating Crown FC 2-1, thereby securing the top spot in the Southern Conference with six points and a superior goal difference. In another match, Kun Khalifa also recorded a 2-1 victory over Osun United, sealing the final promotion slot from the Southern Conference.
As a result of these outcomes, Warri Wolves, Wikki Tourists, Barau FC, and Kun Khalifa, will all compete in Nigeria’s top-flight league next season. The Super 8 play-off will conclude on Saturday, when Warri Wolves face Wikki Tourists in a match that will determine the overall winner of the second-tier league.
