The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has officially congratulated Sunshine Queens, Castmog Ladies, Ahudiyannem Queens, and Imo Striker Queens on their successful promotions to the NWFL Premiership, following an exciting and competitive 2025 Championship season.

 

The tournament, held from September 11 to 21 in Umuahia and Abiriba, Abia State, South-East Nigeria, concluded with four outstanding teams securing their spots in the elite division of Nigerian women’s football.

• Sunshine Queens (Ondo State) – A return to familiar territory for the government-owned team with Premiership experience.

• Castmog Ladies (Ogun State) – A privately-owned club making its historic debut in the topflight.

• Ahudiyannem Queens (Abia State) – Another ambitious privately-owned side earning their first-ever promotion.

• Imo Striker Queens (Imo State) – Completing the list of debutants ready to test their mettle among Nigeria’s best.

In a statement released on Monday, September 22, NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Modupe Shabi, hailed the achievement of the promoted clubs and praised the overall standard of the tournament.

 

“We warmly congratulate the four teams on their deserved qualification to the Premiership,” Shabi said. “Their success is a testament to hard work, determination, and commitment to excellence. The NWFL is proud of the quality of football displayed throughout this year’s Championship and we are excited to welcome fresh talents and new clubs into the top division.”

The NWFL paid special tribute to Dr. Robert Daniel Onyeani, Chairman of Ahudiyannem Queens, who served as the official sponsor of the 2025 Championship. His personal and financial commitment was credited with greatly enhancing the success of the tournament.

 

“We owe a special gratitude to Dr. Onyeani for his vision and generosity,” Shabi noted. “His investment has not only elevated his club but also strengthened the entire ecosystem of women’s football in Nigeria. He has set a laudable benchmark for private sector involvement in our game.”

 

The NWFL also expressed deep appreciation to:

• The Abia State Football Association

• The Abiriba community

• Participating clubs

• Referees and match officials

• Fans and local supporters

 

“The unity of purpose displayed by all stakeholders reaffirms our vision to raise the standard of women’s football across Nigeria. We deeply value the contributions of everyone who played a part in making this Championship a success,” Shabi concluded.

With the Championship concluded, the NWFL reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its competitions, empowering female footballers, and upholding the Premiership as a beacon of excellence, integrity, and inclusivity.

 

The promotion of both established and first-time teams signals a new chapter for women’s football in Nigeria — one that promises fierce competition, fresh talent, and greater visibility for the women’s game across the nation.