Over 20,000 passionate fans packed the iconic Sani Abacha Stadium in Kofarmata, Kano, on Sunday to witness a high-stakes Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) 2025/26 Matchday 2 clash between Kano Pillars and Wikki Tourists FC.

 

The electrifying encounter ended in a 1–1 draw, with both sides putting up a spirited performance that kept supporters on the edge of their seats.

 

Making headlines was Abdullahi Usman, widely known as Abdul Pepe, who featured prominently for Wikki Tourists FC. The forward, who recently transferred from Sporting Lagos—where he was the club’s all-time top scorer in a single season across all competitions—is steadily rising in the Nigerian football scene.

 

Abdul Pepe began his football journey with Footwork FC Abuja, and his appearance in one of Nigeria’s most anticipated fixtures marks a significant milestone in his professional growth.

 

The draw leaves both teams with valuable points early in the season and sets the tone for what promises to be a fiercely competitive NPFL campaign.

 

The match also underlines the resurgence of fan interest in domestic football, with the turnout in Kano serving as a strong signal of the NPFL’s growing appeal and potential.