NPFL: Shooting Stars, Inter Lagos to kick off season with South-West derby

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) will get back underway on 28 August with a South-west derby between Shooting Stars and newly promoted Inter Lagos after the fixtures for the 2026/27 season were unveiled on Friday.

The fixtures were released during the league’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Ibadan, setting the stage for another campaign featuring returning clubs, newly promoted sides, and several intriguing opening-weekend encounters.

The curtain-raiser will see five-time champions Shooting Stars host Inter Lagos under the floodlights at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, on Friday, 28 August.

The remaining Matchday One fixtures are scheduled for Sunday, 30 August.

Former title contenders Rivers United begin at home against Plateau United, while Doma United welcome Sporting Lagos.

In Ilorin, Kwara United will launch their campaign against Kano Pillars at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl Stadium

The Harmony Boys are currently competing at the Ahlan/Gusau Preseason Tournament in Katsina, where Coach Ashifat Sulyman is using the competition to fine-tune his squad ahead of the new season.

Elsewhere, Barau FC host Nasarawa United in Kano, while Abia Warriors entertain Kun Khalifat.

Last season’s fourth-placed team, Ikorodu City, will begin their campaign at home against returning side Ranchers Bees, while Bendel Insurance face Warri Wolves in a South-South derby.

Rangers welcome Katsina United in Enugu, while Niger Tornadoes take on former champions Enyimba in Minna.

The opening fixtures promise an early test for several clubs, with supporters hoping their teams can make a positive start in what is expected to be another fiercely contested NPFL season.

ALSO READ: NPFL 2026/27 season set for August kickoff with historic ₦1bn champions’ prize money

The opening weekend is…