Enugu was alive with joy on Tuesday as Rangers International paraded their 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League trophy through the streets. This celebration marked their historic ninth league title and confirmed their status as one of Nigeria's top football teams.
Thousands of fans came out to cheer the new champions. Players, coaches, and club officials took part in a victory procession across various locations in the Coal City. The celebrations ended at the famous Okpara Square.
The trophy parade capped off a memorable season. The Flying Antelopes faced tough competition from Rivers United but managed to reclaim their top spot in Nigerian football.
Rangers clinched the 2025/26 NPFL title on Sunday, 24 May, 2026, after a thrilling final match against Ikorodu City in Lagos.
Before the final game, Fidelis Ilechukwu’s team knew they had to win to secure the championship, no matter what happened elsewhere. The challenge was tougher since Ikorodu City had not lost at home all season.
But Rangers came through, winning 2-1 in enemy territory. This victory capped off one of the most competitive title races in recent NPFL history.
Their win came even as Rivers United won 3-0 against Katsina United in Port Harcourt on the same day.
In the final standings, Rangers finished first with 68 points, just one point ahead of Rivers United, who had 67 points. This showed how closely matched both teams were throughout the season.
After their title win, the champions received a warm welcome back home.
The trophy parade took the team through major parts of Enugu. Supporters lined the streets, waving the club’s colors, singing victory songs, and celebrating a title that many believe shows the determination and spirit that define the club.
A highlight of the celebrations was a visit to the Enugu State Government House. The team was welcomed by Mr. Peter Mbah, the Executive Governor of Enugu State.
The governor honored the champions for their achievement and their role in bringing pride to the state through sports.
The parade ended at Okpara Square. Many supporters gathered to celebrate with the players and coaching staff.
This latest title adds to Rangers’ rich history as one of Nigeria’s most successful football clubs.
Founded in 1970, the Flying Antelopes have been a key part of Nigerian football, producing many stars and consistently competing at the top level.
The 2025/26 victory joins their past title wins in 1974, 1975, 1977, 1981, 1982, 1984, 2016, and 2023/24.
More importantly, this win brings Rangers to nine league titles. They now tie with Enyimba as the most successful club in Nigerian football history.
For a club that is deeply connected to Nigerian football, matching that record is a big achievement. It strengthens their claim as one of the true powerhouses in the game.
While the celebrations go on in Enugu, the focus will soon shift to their next challenge.
As NPFL champions, Rangers will represent Nigeria in the CAF Champions League next season. They will aim to bring their local success to the continental level.
For now, though, Enugu is all about the Flying Antelopes.
After a season filled with pressure, hard work, and a title race that went down to the wire, Rangers have earned their time to shine. The city is making sure they enjoy it.
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