By Frankie Omokhua, Enugu
The entire Coal City is set to stand still on Saturday as the Rangers International F.C. family begins a massive celebration of the club’s historic 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) triumph.
Following their dramatic title-clinching victory over Ikorodu City F.C. at the Onikan Stadium in Lagos on Sunday, the Enugu State Government has concluded arrangements to host the victorious players and officials to a grand state reception after an elaborate trophy parade across Enugu metropolis.
The Flying Antelopes sealed their ninth league crown in thrilling fashion, finishing the season with 68 points — one point ahead of fierce title rivals Rivers United F.C. — to emerge champions of Nigeria once again.
The planned trophy procession will wear the look of a carnival, with thousands of supporters expected to flood major streets of Enugu in celebration of the club’s remarkable achievement.
Speaking on the preparations to Sportsday on Tuesday, Rangers General Manager/CEO, Amobi Ezeaku, disclosed that Saturday’s celebration would redefine trophy parades in Nigerian football history.
According to him, the trophy tour will hold between 4pm and 6pm before the team proceeds to the Government House where Governor Peter Mbah will officially host the champions.
“The trophy tour will be holding on Saturday from 4pm to 6pm. His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah, has graciously agreed to host the team,” Ezeaku stated.
“In celebration of this historic achievement, the governor has approved the production of 1,000 new Rangers jerseys bearing nine stars above the club’s logo to symbolize our nine league titles.”
“The first 1,000 fans that arrive at Okpara Square on Saturday will receive the specially-designed jerseys free of charge.”
Ezeaku further revealed that the club’s management has carefully designed a unique celebration format aimed at delivering excitement never before witnessed in the country.
“We have fine-tuned plans to ensure that this parade carries a fresh identity and excitement level never seen in Nigeria before.”
“Everything is now in place to showcase this beautiful moment in a way that will remain special to the people of Enugu, Ndigbo and Rangers supporters across the globe,” he added.
Since the final whistle confirmed Rangers as champions, jubilations have continued to sweep across Enugu State, with fans, football lovers and stakeholders celebrating the club’s return to the summit of Nigerian football.
For many supporters, the title represents not just football glory, but the rebirth of the club’s winning culture and the restoration of pride for one of Nigeria’s most historic football institutions.
