National Teams
2025/26 NNL season kicks off as FC Basira host Mighty Jets in Lafia opener
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
The 2025/26 Nigeria National League (NNL) season gets underway today, Saturday in Lafia, where FC Basira will host Mighty Jets FC of Jos in the opening fixture of the campaign.
Originally, another fixture was scheduled to kick off the new season, but the NNL Board reassigned the curtain-raiser to Lafia following venue suitability concerns at the initial host ground. The remainder of the fixtures are slated to begin on November 16.
Today’s encounter promises a competitive start to the season, with both clubs aiming to make an early statement. FC Basira will count on home support to secure maximum points, while Mighty Jets face the test of an away opener in a charged atmosphere.
Basira coach and players will look to capitalize on their familiarity with the Lafia pitch, hoping to set the tone for a strong season. The visitors, meanwhile, are expected to rely on tactical discipline and counterattacks to unsettle their hosts.
To add to the incentive, the NNL has announced a ₦56,000 reward for the winner of the opening fixture—an initiative aimed at motivating teams as Nigeria’s “Most Important League” kicks off another competitive season.