Osun Babes and Sunshine Queens were relegated from the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership following the conclusion of the regular season [1], [2].
The demotion of these two clubs marks a significant shift in the league's competitive landscape, as both teams failed to escape the relegation zone despite a final push for points [1].
The 2025/26 season edition concluded on Wednesday [1]. Both Osun Babes and Sunshine Queens secured victories on the final matchday, but the results were not enough to lift them out of the bottom of the standings [1], [2].
Under the league's current structure, the teams finishing in the relegation zone are demoted to the lower division to make room for promoted sides [2]. The struggle for survival defined the closing stages of the campaign for both clubs, who remained in the drop zone despite their late-season form [1].
League officials said that two teams would be relegated this cycle [2]. The loss of top-flight status for these clubs impacts their visibility and access to the highest level of women's football in Nigeria, a blow that comes after a season of inconsistent results [1].
While the final-day wins provided a temporary moment of success, the overall point tally for the 2025/26 season determined the final standings [1]. The NWFL Premiership now prepares for its next phase as the relegated teams begin the process of transitioning to the lower tier [2].
“Osun Babes and Sunshine Queens were relegated from the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership.”
The relegation of Osun Babes and Sunshine Queens underscores the volatility of the NWFL Premiership, where final-day victories cannot always offset a season of poor performance. Their demotion to the lower division may lead to a loss of sponsorship and talent as the clubs attempt to restructure for a potential return to the top flight.
