·Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the development of sports in the state, assuring the Nigeria National League (NNL) of continued support and partnership to promote football.
The governor made the commitment while declaring open the 2026/27 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigeria National League, held in Owerri, the Imo State capital.
Represented at the occasion by his Chief of Staff, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie.
Governor Uzodinma noted that the growth of football remains an important part of sports development, stressing that a strong and vibrant Nigeria National League is essential to building a stronger football ecosystem in the country.
“My administration is fully committed to partnering with the NNL and other relevant stakeholders to create an enabling environment where football and other sporting activities can thrive”.
He further assured participants that the state government would continue to support initiatives capable of promoting grassroots development, nurturing young talents and strengthening the sporting sector.
Speaking at the AGM, the NNL Chairman, George Aluo, said that the steady restructuring of Nigeria’s second-tier football league would continue in the 2026/27 season.
Aluo said the league had recorded significant progress through ongoing reforms aimed at improving its organisation, competitiveness and overall standard.
He commended stakeholders for their contributions to the development of the NNL, noting that the successful conclusion of the AGM in Owerri had further provided the platform for the league to consolidate on its achievements and prepare for a more competitive 2026/27 season.
The AGM brought together key stakeholders of the Nigeria National League as they deliberated on issues concerning the administration, growth and future direction of the country’s second-tier football competition.
The 17th NNL, AGM produced draw for the new season, with 34 clubs divided into four conferences ahead of the October 31 kick off.
The new season will begin in Owerri, with Heartland FC hosting Crown FC of Ogbomosho at the Dan Anyiam Stadium on October 31.
“We are coming back here for the season opener, Heartland FC versus Crown FC of Ogbomosho. I wish all the teams the best of luck ahead of the October 31 kick-off date”.
The AGM draw placed nine clubs each in Conferences A and B, while Conferences C and D contain eight teams apiece.
Conference A: Remo Stars FC, Edel FC, Godswill Akpabio United FC, Ikorodu City FA, Stormers SC, Heartland FC, Crown FC, Sunshine Stars FC and OYC FC.
Conference B: Beyond Limits FA, Solution FC, Akwa United FC, Smart City FC, Abakaliki FC, Right2Win FC, Dokkall Khairu FC, Ekiti United FC and Bayelsa United FC.
Conference C: El-Kanemi Warriors FC, DMD FC, FC Basira, NeuroSpark FC, Kebbi United FC, Adamawa United FC, Jigawa Golden Stars FC and Junior Danburam FC.
Conference D: Yobe Desert Stars FC, Wikki Tourists FC, Lobi Stars FC, ABS FC, Sokoto United FC, Bichi First FC, Kada Warriors FC and Mighty Jets Feeder.
The event in Owerri served not only as a platform for reviewing the league’s progress but also as an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between the NNL and host state.
