Meet the Newcomers: Wikki Tourists, Barau FC, Warri Wolves, Kun Khalifat FC eye NPFL breakthrough

The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, not just for the return of familiar powerhouses, but also for the arrival of four ambitious teams ready to prove their worth among the elite.

Following the conclusion of the NNL Super 8 Playoffs in Asaba, Delta State, four clubs—Wikki Tourists FC, Barau FC, Warri Wolves FC, and Kun Khalifat FC—earned promotion from the Nigeria National League (NNL) to the country’s top-flight division.

Their journeys to this point were as dramatic as they were inspiring, setting the stage for what could be a transformative NPFL season.

The newly promoted sides

Wikki Tourists FC (Bauchi): A Familiar Name with a Fresh Resolve

For Wikki Tourists, this promotion marks a homecoming rather than a debut. The Bauchi-based club, once a staple in Nigeria’s top flight, is making a long-awaited return after their relegation in the 2022/23 season.

After failing to bounce back immediately, the 2024/25 campaign saw a stronger, more disciplined side led by experienced coach Abdul Maikaba.

Despite a shaky start in the Super 8, Wikki surged back with a dominant 4-0 win over Yobe Desert Stars on Matchday 3 to top Group A on goal difference.

They may have lost the Super 8 final 3-2 to Warri Wolves, but their ticket to the NPFL was already punched.

“We had some tough moments, but I believed in my players,” Maikaba said. “We have learned a lot and will prepare even harder for the challenges ahead.

”Barau FC (Kano): The Rising Stars of the North

Barau FC’s ascent has been nothing short of meteoric. Founded only a few years ago, the privately-owned team from Kano made the leap from the Nationwide League One (NLO) to the NNL, and now, in their debut NNL season, to the NPFL an extraordinary achievement.

Their promotion was secured with a convincing 2-0 win over Doma United. Finishing second in Group A with five points, Barau FC impressed with their tactical discipline, youthful energy, and professional setup.

Club president Shawall Barau Jibrin, son of Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin, expressed excitement over the team’s trajectory.

“We had a plan, and we followed it,” Shawall said. “This club is built on structure and ambition. Our goal is not just to participate in the NPFL but to grow steadily and represent Kano proudly.”

Despite sharing the city with top-tier stalwarts Kano Pillars, Shawall insists there’s no rivalry—just mutual respect. “Pillars are a government-funded club, while we are private. We look forward to a healthy local derby and collaboration that uplifts football in Kano.

”Warri Wolves FC (Delta State): A Comeback with Bite

Once a household name in Nigerian football, Warri Wolves have clawed their way back to the top after a four-year hiatus from the NPFL.

Their Super 8 campaign was emphatic—they topped Group B and sealed their return with a 2-1 win over Crown FC before clinching the Super 8 title with a thrilling 3-2 win over Wikki Tourists in the final.

Team coach Stanley Aluma credited the players’ resilience and determination for their comeback.

“This team has been through a lot, but we never lost belief,” Aluma said. “We knew we had the talent, and now it’s about proving we belong at the top.”

With a blend of experienced players and young talent, Warri Wolves are expected to bring both grit and flair to the 2025/26 season.

Kun Khalifat FC (Owerri, Imo State): Privately-Owned and Proud

Arguably the surprise package of the promotion race, Kun Khalifat FC from Owerri secured their place in the NPFL by defeating Osun United 2-1 in their final Group B match. With six points from three matches, they matched Warri Wolves point-for-point but missed out on top spot on goal difference.

Their rapid rise, much like Barau FC’s, has been credited to efficient management and long-term planning. Club CEO Michael Chukwudi Amaefula reflected on the club’s journey with pride.

“Ten months ago, during the NLO playoffs in Aba, I said we were going to the NPFL—and today, we’re here,” Amaefula said. “This promotion is the result of hard work, patience, and a clear vision.”

Kun Khalifat’s success further underscores the growing influence of privately-owned clubs in Nigeria’s football ecosystem, a trend that appears to be accelerating.

A New Era for the NPFL?

With Barau FC and Kun Khalifat FC joining Remo Stars and Ikorodu City, the NPFL now has four privately-owned clubs competing in a league historically dominated by government-backed teams.

This growing diversity in club ownership is being hailed by analysts as a key factor in driving innovation, transparency, and professionalism in Nigerian football.

The new entrants bring more than just fresh jerseys—they bring fresh ideas, modern football management, and the hunger to disrupt the status quo.

The 2025/26 NPFL season, tentatively scheduled to kick off on August 22, promises fierce competition, bold storylines, and