BY EDMOND ODOK – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has heaped praises on Rangers International Football Club of Enugu for conquering the pitch and winning the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) trophy for a historic ninth time.
Describing the club’s triumph as a remarkable achievement and a testament to its enduring football legacy, the President applauded the managers, players, and passionate supporters of the Enugu-based Flying Antelopes, who dominated the grueling 38-match campaign to finish at the summit with 68 points, leaving their fierce title rivals, Rivers United, in their wake.
In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, the President also went down memory lane, recalling the glory days of the 1970s and 1980s, an era when the Flying Antelopes were undisputed royalty, sweeping up league and FA Cup titles in their strides.
He specifically celebrated their continental conquests that include the thrilling run to the African Cup of Champions Clubs final in 1975 and their prestigious African Cup Winners’ Cup triumph in 1977.
Also pouring encomiums on the team’s leadership and youth involvement, the President said: “I must also congratulate Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State on the victory of Rangers International FC,” adding: “This victory is an obvious fruit of his administration’s investments in youth and sports in the state. I commend him.
“As one of the oldest clubs in Nigeria, Rangers have produced some of the nation’s finest football players who went on to make the country proud on the global stage. I am proud of their achievement.”
While urging the Flying Antelopes to remain competitive as they seek continental glory. President Tinubu also tipped his hat to runners-up Rivers United for their relentless pursuit of the trophy and for embodying the true spirit of sportsmanship.
With the curtains drawn on this year’s domestic season, the President wished both Rangers International and Rivers United the absolute best as they prepare to fly the Nigerian flag and bring home glory in the upcoming CAF Champions League competition.
The Enugu based club clinched the championship on the final day of the season on May 24, 2026 following a tense 2-1 away victory over Ikorodu City in Lagos. Coached by Fidelis Ilechukwu, the Flying Antelopes needed an outright win to fend off closest rivals Rivers United FC of Port Harcourt on the final day.
Captain Chidiebere Nwobodo led the team to the finish line, scoring a brilliant brace to secure all three points.With the victory, Rangers finished the 38-game season with 68 points, just one point clear of Rivers United.
This represents a historic milestone that ties Rangers with Enyimba Football Club of Aba as the joint-most successful club in Nigerian football history. Prior to thislatest triumph, the “Flying Antelopes” previously won the NPFL title in the 2023/2024 season, amassing 70 points and securing automatic qualification for the CAF Champions League.
Their enduring “Never Say Die” spirit is backed by an illustrious history of past league victories spanning 1974, 1975, 1977, 1981, 1982, 1984, 2016, and 2024.
