The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) held its 2024 Annual General Assembly (AGA) on December 17, 2024, at Fabino Hotel by Toprank, Garki, Abuja, in an event marked by strategic decisions, financial progress, and an optimistic outlook for women’s football in Nigeria.
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Financial Resurgence and Sustainability
A key highlight of the assembly was the presentation and adoption of the financial report for the 2023/2024 season.
The league celebrated an impressive turnaround, transitioning from a deficit of over ₦15 million in the previous year to a surplus of more than ₦3 million.
This remarkable achievement was attributed to improved strategic marketing initiatives under the “Women Football Rising (c)” agenda, as well as operational efficiency by the NWFL Secretariat. The Congress commended the Board and Secretariat for their dedication to ensuring financial stability.
The proposed budget for the 2024/2025 season was also approved, setting the stage for further investments in league expansion and development.
League Expansion and Structural Reforms
A historic decision was made to expand the NWFL Premiership from 16 to 20 clubs starting in the 2025/2026 season. This move aims to create more opportunities for women in professional football.
The Championship will maintain its 20-club structure, while the long-awaited States League will debut as the 3rd Tier of the NWFL in the 2024/2025 season, ensuring a robust pipeline for talent development.
To support these reforms, specialized committees were constituted, including the Marketing and Communication Committee, Premiership Super 6 Committee, Championship Committee, and States League Committee. These groups will drive implementation and monitor progress across the league tiers.
Promotion, Relegation, and League Format
Ibom Angels and Honey Badgers were promoted to the NWFL Premiership, while Royal Queens and Sunshine Queens were relegated to the Championship.
The Congress retained the two-group league format for the 2024/2025 Premiership season, ensuring competitive balance and streamlined scheduling.
The group draws for the upcoming season revealed a dynamic mix of teams, setting the stage for thrilling matchups, including the opening Star Match between defending champions Edo Queens and Abia Angels on January 15, 2025, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
Acknowledgments and Resolutions
The Congress expressed its gratitude to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) leadership and Benue State Football Association Chairman, Dr. (Barr.) Paul Edeh, for their support and hospitality during the AGM.
A unanimous vote of confidence was passed on the NWFL Board, led by Nkechi Obi, for its strategic leadership and ambitious strides in repositioning the league.
The Congress further aligned with the Board’s commitment to expanding opportunities for girls and women in football, fostering systematic and sustainable growth.
Looking Ahead
As the NWFL embarks on the 2024/2025 season, it stands as a beacon of progress in women’s sports, fueled by visionary leadership, robust financial strategies, and an unwavering commitment to growth.
The league’s evolution signals a new era for women’s football in Nigeria, with players, fans, and stakeholders eagerly anticipating the action and milestones to come.
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