Kun Khalifat’s Historic Rise To NPFL Headlines Alongside Barau FC, Warri Wolves And Wikki Tourists.
Kun Khalifat, a privately owned club from Imo State, has etched its name in Nigerian football history by securing promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for the 2025/2026 season, joined by Warri Wolves, Wikki Tourists, and Barau FC. The quartet earned their top-flight spots through standout performances at the Nigeria National League (NNL) Super 8 playoffs in Asaba, Delta State, setting the stage for an electrifying NPFL season kicking off on 22 August 2025.
Kun Khalifat’s ascent to the NPFL is a remarkable tale of ambition and resilience. Founded just three years ago, the Owerri-based club began its journey in the Nationwide League One, Nigeria’s third tier. Through strategic recruitment and robust backing from private investors, Khalifat clinched promotion to the NNL in 2023. Their rapid progress continued in the 2024/2025 NNL season, where they dominated the Southern Conference with a blend of disciplined defending and clinical attacking. At the Super 8 playoffs in Asaba, Khalifat sealed their historic NPFL berth with a 2-1 victory over Osun United at the Stephen Keshi Stadium. Goals from captain Chukwuma Okeke and winger Ifeanyi Eze showcased their attacking flair, while goalkeeper Daniel Obasi’s crucial saves ensured victory. Head coach Emeka Okonkwo hailed the achievement, stating, “This is a dream realised for Imo State. Our vision was to build a club that inspires, and we’re ready to compete with the best.” As the first private club from Imo to reach the top tier, Khalifat’s promotion has sparked celebrations across the state, with fans optimistic about their potential to challenge established NPFL sides.
Warri Wolves, absent from the NPFL since their 2021 relegation, also celebrated a triumphant return, topping the Southern Conference with six points after a 2-1 win over Crown FC in Asaba. Jude Ebhohon and Yusuf starred for the Seasiders, whose disciplined display at their home ground was backed by goalkeeper Elvis’s heroics. Chairman Neville Ambakederemo credited the team’s focus and the support of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, saying, “Our collective effort paid off. We’re back where we belong.”
Wikki Tourists, relegated in 2023, secured their NPFL comeback with a commanding 4-0 rout of Yobe Desert Stars. Coach Abdul Maikaba’s side, led by a first-half hat-trick from Wonderson Yakubu and a goal from Hassan, topped the Northern Conference on goal difference. Captain Manu Garba’s pre-season promise to restore Wikki’s top-flight status was fulfilled, with the Bauchi-based club’s clinical performance signaling their readiness for the NPFL.
Barau FC, backed by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, rounded out the promoted quartet with a 2-0 win over Doma United in Ozoro. Goals from Shammasu Muhd and Usman Maidubji capped a meteoric rise for the Kano-based side, which also climbed from the Nationwide League One in recent years. Jibrin’s ambitions for continental competition have added intrigue to Barau’s NPFL debut.
The Super 8 playoffs, hosted at the Stephen Keshi Stadium and Southern Delta University Stadium, saw fierce battles among eight teams vying for four promotion spots. Warri Wolves and Wikki Tourists will contest the NNL Super 8 final on 12 July to determine the second-tier champion, though both have already secured NPFL places. The promoted clubs replace Heartland, Akwa United, Sunshine Stars, and Lobi Stars, relegated after the 2024/2025 season.
Kun Khalifat’s rapid rise, alongside the return of Warri Wolves and Wikki Tourists and the emergence of Barau FC, signals a dynamic shift in the NPFL. With private investment driving clubs like Khalifat, the upcoming season promises fierce competition and fresh narratives, as these teams aim to leave their mark on Nigeria’s top flight.