Abuja, Jan. 22, 2026 (NAN) The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership, has announced a temporary suspension of the ongoing 2025/2026 league following the completion of Week 7 fixtures, citing concerns over players availability caused by national team call-ups commitments.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the decision was contained in an official circular signed by the NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Modupe Shabi, made available to newsmen on Thursday in Abuja.
The circular stated that the suspension followed a formal complaint submitted to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) by one of the participating clubs.
According to the league, the affected club currently has more than five players invited to the Under-20 Women’s national team camp, a situation the NWFL said significantly weakens the team’s ability to field a competitive squad during the ongoing phase of the season.
“The ongoing 2025/2026 NWFL Premiership matches have been placed on hold after the completion of Week 7 fixtures,” the circular stated.
The NWFL confirmed that the league would resume with Week 8 fixtures on Feb. 18.
However, it noted that due to time constraints within the 2025/2026 season calendar, only a one-week mid-season break would be observed, rather than the longer recess typically associated with the league season.
“Adjusted fixtures reflecting the revised schedule for the continuation of the season have been circulated to all clubs.
“We urge teams to comply strictly with the updated timetable,” the statement added.
Shabi reaffirmed the league’s commitment to fairness and the smooth administration of Nigeria’s top-flight women’s football.
NAN reports that the suspension comes as Nigeria’s Under-20 Women’s national team, the Falconets, intensify preparations for their FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup qualifying campaign.
The Falconets opened camp on Jan. 4 in Abuja ahead of their third-round qualifying fixture against Senegal.
Nigeria will host the first leg on Feb. 7 at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, while the return leg is scheduled for Feb. 14 in Dakar, Senegal.
The 2026 FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup finals will be hosted by Poland. (NAN)
