There are seasons that produce champions. On a tense Sunday evening in Port Harcourt, Edo Queens needed just one point to complete another remarkable chapter in their rise to the summit of Nigerian women’s football. Ninety minutes later, after a hard-fought goalless draw against Bayelsa Queens at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, the celebrations began.
The crown returned to Benin City.
For the second time in three years, Edo Queens are champions of the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL), further cementing their place among the country’s elite women’s football teams and reinforcing a growing narrative: women’s football in Nigeria is entering a new era of excellence, ambition and visibility.
A Title Built On Consistency
Coach Moses Aduku’s side arrived at the final round of the NWFL Premiership Super Six atop the standings with nine points. They required only a draw against fellow contenders Bayelsa Queens to seal the title.
They got exactly what they needed.
The result was enough to secure the championship ahead of Bayelsa Queens and Nasarawa Amazons, who both finished on eight points. Abia Angels ended with six points, while FC Robo Queens and Rivers Angels finished in fifth and sixth places, respectively.
The achievement marks another milestone for a team that only won its maiden NWFL title in 2024 before returning two years later to prove that success was no accident.
Celebrating the triumph, the club posted a message that perfectly captured the mood of its supporters:
“Edo Queens have been dropping chart-toppers all season, and the final track is gold! NWFL 2025/2026 secured — the victory anthem is loud, proud, and unstoppable. Adaaa Edo Queens.”
The title is more than silverware.
It earns Edo Queens the opportunity to represent Nigeria at the upcoming WAFU-B Cup, the regional tournament that serves as a qualification pathway to the CAF Women’s Champions League.
For a team that continues to raise standards domestically, the next challenge lies beyond Nigeria’s borders.
The journey to continental football offers another opportunity to showcase the growing strength of Nigerian women’s football and further elevate the profile of a league that continues to produce exceptional talent.
Stars Who Lit Up The Season
While Edo Queens claimed the ultimate prize, several individual performers were recognised for their outstanding campaigns.
FC Robo Queens’ Oluwakemi Adegbuyi was named the 2025/26 NWFL Premiership Player of the Season after an impressive run of performances.
Abia Angels goalkeeper Fatima Okolo earned the Goalkeeper of the Season award, while Rivers Angels received the Fair Play Award in recognition of exemplary conduct throughout the Super Six.
The race for the Golden Boot ended with a shared honour.
Rivers Angels striker Abasiofoh Uwah and Edo Queens forward Atume Doorsuur finished as joint top scorers with 13 goals each.
“A well-deserved shared honour for two outstanding forwards with 13 goals,” the league wrote while announcing the award.
The Applause From Home
The victory sparked celebrations far beyond the dressing room.
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo described the triumph as a reflection of the values that define both the team and the state.
“Winning this prestigious title for the second time is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the consistency, excellence, and determination that define the Edo people.
“On behalf of the Government and good people of Edo State, I congratulate and celebrate the players, coaching crew, management, and supporters of Edo Queens for this remarkable achievement,” Governor Okpebholo wrote.
“This victory is not only a triumph for the club but also an inspiration to young girls across our state and beyond to dream big, work hard, and pursue excellence.
“As a government, we remain committed to supporting sports development and creating opportunities for our youths to excel on national and international stages. Congratulations, Champions! Edo is proud of you,” he added.
Former Edo State deputy governor and Director-General of the National Institute for Sports, Philip Shaibu, also praised the team’s achievement.
“You have not only brought glory to Edo State — you have shown the world the power and potential of women’s football in Nigeria,” he said.
“As Director-General of the National Institute for Sports, I am proud to celebrate this milestone with you. Your success is proof that when we invest in sports development and nurture our talents with purpose, results speak for themselves.
“I commend the Edo State Government for its unwavering commitment to sports — the fruits of that investment are evident for all to see. To the Edo Queens: Africa awaits you. Go and make us proud!” he said.
New Era For Women’s Football
Just two years ago, Edo Queens celebrated the first league title in their history. Today, they are no longer surprise winners. They are repeat champions.
Their success comes at a time when Nigerian football is increasingly witnessing investment, ambition and stronger institutional support across both the men’s and women’s games.
From Rangers International reclaiming the NPFL title to Edo Queens establishing themselves as a force in the NWFL, the message is clear: Nigerian clubs are building winning cultures.
For Edo Queens, however, the story is no longer about reaching the top.
It is about staying there.
And with continental football now on the horizon, Nigeria’s newest queens have another kingdom to conquer.