NPFL Champions Rangers Receive Royal Reward from Enugu Governor

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has once again demonstrated his administration's commitment to sports development by rewarding Rangers International Football Club following their remarkable triumph in the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.

In a grand gesture that has attracted widespread commendation across the football community, Governor Mbah announced a cash reward of ₦100 million for the players and a plot of land in Enugu for each member of the title-winning squad. The governor also approved ₦50 million for the club's management team and additional plots of land for key officials, including the General Manager, Secretary, Head Coach, and Assistant Coach.

The announcement was made after the governor received the team in Enugu following their successful campaign, which saw the Flying Antelopes clinch their ninth NPFL title. The achievement places Rangers alongside Enyimba as the most successful clubs in the history of the Nigerian top-flight league.

Expressing his delight at the club's accomplishment, Governor Mbah described the victory as a source of pride for the people of Enugu State. He praised the team's resilience, dedication, and determination throughout a fiercely contested season.

"What a season. What a team. They brought the trophy home again in style," the governor stated. "As a token of appreciation, I announced a plot of land in Enugu for each player, a cash reward of ₦100 million for the team, ₦50 million for the management, and additional plots of land for the General Manager, Secretary, Coach, and Assistant Coach. They have earned it, every bit of it."

Rangers sealed the championship in dramatic fashion with a 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on the final day of the season. The result capped one of the most thrilling title races in recent NPFL history, with Rivers United pushing the champions until the very end despite recording a convincing 3-0 victory over Katsina United.

The triumph not only secured Rangers' place among Nigerian football's elite but also earned them a ticket to represent the country in next season's CAF Champions League. Rivers United will join them in Africa's premier club competition, while Shooting Stars secured a place in the CAF Confederation Cup after finishing third.

The Coal City club's latest success has drawn praise from football stakeholders and political leaders across the nation, including President Bola Tinubu. The President congratulated Rangers on their achievement and highlighted the club's rich history and immense contribution to Nigerian football.

Tinubu recalled Rangers' dominance during the 1970s and 1980s when the club established itself as one of Africa's most respected teams. During that golden era, Rangers won multiple league and FA Cup titles, reached the final of the African Cup of Champions Clubs in 1975, and captured the African Cup Winners' Cup in 1977.

"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," the President said.

The President further noted that the club's success reflects the benefits of sustained investment in youth development and sporting infrastructure, factors that continue to strengthen Nigerian football.

For Rangers International, the title represents more than just another trophy. It symbolizes resilience, tradition, and a renewed commitment to excellence. For Governor Mbah and the people of Enugu State, it is a moment of celebration and recognition for a team that has once again brought glory to the Coal City.

With substantial rewards now awaiting the champions, the victory serves as an inspiration to athletes across the country and reinforces the importance of supporting sports as a catalyst for youth empowerment, economic growth, and national pride.