- The El-Kanemi Warriors vs. Kwara United NPFL match has been postponed due to severe flooding in Borno State
- The natural disaster has displaced thousands, affecting schools, businesses, and homes in the region
- The NPFL will reschedule the match once the flood situation improves
The anticipated Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clash between El-Kanemi Warriors and Kwara United, initially set for Sunday, September 15, has been put on hold as a result of devastating floods in Borno State.
This natural disaster, which has caused widespread displacement and disruption, has led to the match being postponed indefinitely.
The recent flood in Maiduguri, triggered by the overflow of the Alau Dam, has been reported as the worst in 30 years, affecting schools, businesses, and thousands of residents.
In light of these dire conditions, the NPFL made the decision to delay the fixture until further notice.
El-Kanemi Warriors, fresh off their 2024 President Federation Cup triumph, had just kicked off their 2024-25 season with a goalless draw against reigning champions Rangers.
However, the natural disaster now forces the club to wait before playing their next match, which was originally scheduled to take place at the El-Kanemi Stadium in Maiduguri.
“The league will announce a new date for the fixture once the situation improves,” officials confirmed, emphasizing that the safety and well-being of the players, staff, and fans remain a priority.
El-Kanemi Warriors had recently improved their squad with eight new signings as they prepared for the new season in the NPFL.
The Maiduguri-based club’s journey back to top-tier football also included a disappointing exit from the CAF Confederation Cup in the first round at the hands of FC Dajde of Benin.
The 2024 President Federation Cup champions, El-Kanemi Warriors, faced elimination in the first round of the CAF Confederation Cup by Beninoise side FC Dajde.
This campaign marked their third appearance in continental competitions and their first since competing in the 1993 CAF Cup Winners’ Cup, where they narrowly lost 1-0 to Al-Ahly in the semi-finals.
Despite the recent setback in the Confederation Cup, the Warriors are hopeful about their prospects in the NPFL after adding key players such as Henry Ndedi, Agbo Ekoi, and Clement Naantum from Sporting Lagos. Mojereoluwa Suleiman and Sunday Ajibola were signed from Lobi Stars, while Rahman Olanrewaju, Mohammed Aminu, and Bilal Yakubu joined from Kwara United, Kano Pillars, and Doma United, respectively.
NPFL opener between Enugu Rangers, El Kanemi Warriors ends in draw
Previously, TheRadar reported that Enugu Rangers were held to a frustrating goalless draw by El Kanemi Warriors in their Nigeria Premier Football League opener at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Saturday.
Despite their recent triumph as league champions just 68 days prior, the Flying Antelopes struggled to break down a resilient El Kanemi side, who recently won the President Federation Cup.
