In a landmark moment for Nigerian football, Remo Stars were officially crowned champions of the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after a commanding 4-1 victory over Ikorodu City at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne. The win not only cemented their first‑ever league title but also marked the first time a privately owned club from Ogun State lifted the NPFL trophy since the state’s creation in 1976. With jubilant fans, festive giveaways, and pulsating on‑field drama, Remo Stars have ushered in a new era of success and community pride across Southwest Nigeria.
Remo Stars entered their final home fixture already assured of the title from Matchday 35 but treated supporters to a celebratory performance, overturning an early setback to defeat Ikorodu City 4-1. Conceding in the 15th minute, the champions responded with four unanswered goals: Sikiru Alimi (37′), Ibrahim Shuaib (41′), birthday boy Babatunde Bello (48′), and Olamilekan Adedayo (67′) each found the net, sealing a day of jubilant celebration. The victory took their season tally to 71 points, two shy of the second‑highest NPFL record, and stood as a powerful statement of dominance in Nigerian football.
This championship is momentous on multiple fronts. It is Remo Stars’ maiden NPFL crown and the first by a privately owned club in over two decades. Equally significant, Ogun State celebrated its first national league champion since its inception in 1976—an achievement no other team from the state had managed, despite Abiola Babes’ past Challenge Cup success. By revitalizing long‑neglected brownfield sites rather than drilling new wells, Remo Stars’ rise underlines both innovation and a deep connection to their community roots.
The day’s festivities began hours before kickoff and stretched long into the night. Remo Stars Stadium was transformed into a carnival, with 1,500 early‑arriving fans receiving free refreshments and lucky supporters winning smartphones, a 55‑inch Smart TV, and ValueJet round‑trip tickets. Popular artiste Shoday headlined the entertainment lineup, fueling the party atmosphere as Governor Dapo Abiodun personally presented the NPFL trophy to the triumphant squad.
While champions celebrated, the battle for CAF competition slots intensified. Rivers United secured second place with 61 points despite a 3-1 loss to Kwara United, and Abia Warriors clinched third following a 2-1 victory over El‑Kanemi Warriors. Both sides will head into the final matchday still vying for a coveted Champions League berth, underscoring the NPFL’s growing competitiveness.
At the other end of the table, Sunshine Stars’ 2-1 defeat to Niger Tornadoes confirmed their relegation to the Nigeria National League, while Nasarawa United kept their top-flight status with a thrilling 3-2 win over Enyimba. Heartland FC’s narrow 1-0 loss at Bendel Insurance dashed their survival hopes, as Kano Pillars, Akwa United, Rangers, and Plateau United all recorded vital victories.
Remo Stars’ historic triumph shines a spotlight on the potential of privately‑run clubs to transform local football landscapes. As they set their sights on breaking more NPFL records and competing on the continental stage, the Sky Blue Stars’ success story promises to inspire a new generation of Nigerian clubs to innovate, engage their communities, and chase success with unbridled passion.