NPFL Round-Up: Doma Vs Wikki, New Signings Confirmed

According to Ireporter Online, Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clubs are stepping up preparations ahead of the 2026/27 campaign with a series of pre-season fixtures, coaching appointments and player acquisitions aimed at strengthening their squads before the season begins.

Newly promoted Doma United are scheduled to face Nigeria National League (NNL) side Wikki Tourists in a pre-season friendly on Saturday at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium. The encounter is expected to provide both teams with another opportunity to fine-tune their preparations and evaluate their readiness for the upcoming campaign.

The fixture will also enable Doma United’s technical crew to assess player performances and refine tactical strategies after the club secured a return to the NPFL following a two-year absence from the top flight. The Savannah Tigers will begin the new season under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Ayodeji Ayeni, while Wikki Tourists, who were relegated from the NPFL last season, will now be managed by Bala Abubakar.

Meanwhile, Niger Tornadoes have lined up two friendly matches this weekend as part of their build-up to the new season. The Minna-based side will take on Bida Selected on Saturday before facing Bida Lions on Sunday, with both games scheduled for the Aliyu Ndayeko Memorial Stadium in Bida.

The warm-up matches are expected to give the coaching staff a closer look at the current squad, assess new arrivals and continue rebuilding the team after several players departed at the end of last season. The club is also expected to reinforce the squad with additional signings before the transfer window closes.

Elsewhere, Kwara United have strengthened their technical department by appointing Ladie Ojokojo as the club’s new chief coach. Ojokojo joins from Kwara Football Academy and is set to work alongside technical adviser Suleimon Ashifat as the Harmony Boys continue preparations for the new campaign. The appointment is part of the club’s strategy to reinforce its backroom staff ahead of the 2026/27 NPFL season.

In Benin City, Bendel Insurance have completed the signing of forward Suraj Lawal on a one-year contract. The striker joins from Abia Warriors, where he scored three league goals last season, and is expected to bolster the attacking options available to head coach Kennedy Boboye as the club intensifies preparations for the new football season.