NPFL: Warri Wolves begin promotion race

Warri Wolves FC is set to begin their battle to return to the top flight of the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) after spending two seasons in the lower division.

To prepare for the 2023/2024 season, Neville Ambekederemo took over as chairman of Warri Wolves, replacing the former management, led by Moses Etu, who had served in the position twice

The new NNL season will begin this weekend, but Warri Wolves’ first match is on November 19 against International Lagos FC at Kwale Stadium, as Warri Township Stadium is under renovation.

Earlier, this week, some players of Warri Wolves cried out to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori over alleged financial difficulties they face in their camp, including non-payment of sign-on fees and salaries.

But the new chairman, Ambekederemo, said everything is being done by the state government to ensure Warri Wolves’ promotion to the elite class this season. He charged the players to be focused on the task ahead.

“The new NNL season will kick off this weekend, but we have been drawn until next week,” Ambakederemo said. “I do visit the players in camp from time to time, and I have told them the importance of the government attached to this promotion ticket and the players have assured me their readiness to fight for the ticket.”

He urged the players to be more dedicated, focused, and disciplined to achieve their collective goal.

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One major headache former Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, had in his eight-year tenure was Warri Wolves’ failure to maintain a stable position in the top flight of the Nigerian league.

On two occasions, the Seasiders slumped into relegation waters, the last being in the 2019/2020 Season, when they failed to gain promotion after finishing behind eventual Group B2 winners, Bayelsa United.

Warri Wolves, who were eliminated in the semifinal of the 2023 Federation Cup in Lagos, will play their first two matches at home. They will face Osun United in week 2 after the encounter with International Lagos FC.

Their week three tie is against Ikorodu City FC in Lagos, just as they face Giant Brillars FC and FC One Rocket in week four and week five respectively.