President Federation Cup: Bayelsa United target redemption after NPFL relegation

Bayelsa United will face Wikki Tourists in the Round of 32 of the 2025-2026 President Federation Cup at Lafia City Stadium as the club seeks to rebuild after relegation from the Nigeria Professional Football League.

The Match Details

The Round of 32 encounter pits two sides with recent top-flight experience against each other. Wikki Tourists, based in Bauchi, enter the tie after competing in the NPFL promotion/relegation playoffs in prior seasons. Lafia City Stadium, located in Nasarawa State, has hosted Federation Cup matches in previous editions and provides a neutral venue for the fixture. Kick-off time and broadcast arrangements have not yet been confirmed by the Nigeria Football Federation.

Bayelsa United’s Recent Performance

Bayelsa United finished the most recent NPFL season in the relegation zone, ending a period of top-division participation that began with promotion in 2022. The club, founded in 2000 and representing Bayelsa State in the Niger Delta region, has historically alternated between the NPFL and the Nigeria National League. Relegation reduces access to central broadcast revenue and sponsorship opportunities that the league distributes to member clubs. Club records show average attendances at the Yenagoa Township Stadium during the 2024-2025 campaign remained modest compared with larger-market teams. The drop to the second tier will require adjustments to the wage bill and scouting network, a common challenge for clubs moving between divisions in Nigeria.

By Sarah Okafor, Staff Writer