The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) was thrown into a wave of controversy on Monday, November 24, 2025, after the league body formally announced the relegation of Castmog Ladies from the upcoming 2025/2026 NWFL Premiership season. The decision, rooted in licensing and registration non-compliance, was immediately countered by a strong statement from the Abeokuta-based club, insisting they remain part of the top flight.
In a press release signed by NWFL Media Director, Samuel Ahmadu, the Secretariat confirmed that Castmog Ladies were among the teams earlier warned to complete all necessary registration and licensing obligations ahead of the new campaign.
Despite the reminders issued to three clubs, the NWFL stated that Castmog Ladies were the only side that failed to meet the deadline. As a result, the Secretariat officially confirmed their relegation, reducing the Premiership roster to 19 teams for the 2025/2026 season.
NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Ms. Modupe Shabi, emphasized that protecting the integrity of the league requires strict adherence to licensing standards.
> “Compliance with registration and licensing requirements is a non-negotiable part of ensuring a credible and competitive league,” she noted, adding that revised fixtures and logistical updates will be communicated before the league kicks off on Wednesday, November 26, 2025.
Following the adjustment, all teams originally scheduled to face Castmog Ladies including Rivers Angels on Matchday One will now observe a bye week on those dates.
In a swift response released Monday afternoon, Castmog Ladies issued a statement signed by Prince Adeniyi Adeyinka of the club’s management, addressing the situation and calming concerns among supporters.
The club insisted that despite the NWFL announcement, they remain part of the Premiership, revealing that all outstanding documentation and compliance issues are already being attended to “with utmost urgency.”
Castmog Ladies emphasized their commitment to the 2025/2026 campaign, assuring fans that the team is prepared and focused as administrative processes continue behind the scenes.
The statement also expressed gratitude to supporters and partners for their loyalty during the unfolding dispute.
With kickoff less than 48 hours away, the conflicting positions of the NWFL and Castmog Ladies have generated significant debate within the women’s football community. Analysts argue that the matter needs swift resolution to avoid confusion as clubs finalize travel plans, fixtures, and preparations for Wednesday.
While the NWFL maintains that Castmog Ladies are officially relegated, the club’s firm stance suggests an appeal process or a push for reconsideration is underway.
Castmog Ladies are slated to play Rivers Angels at home at MKO Abiola Stadium Abeokuta on Wednesday 26 November, but with this twist a reconfirmation from the NWFL board as not been released to counter the status reaffirmation of Castmog Ladies NWFL PREMIERSHIP Status.
For now, the women’s league enters the new season under an unusual spotlight, with all eyes on whether Castmog Ladies’ fate is sealed or still subject to official review.
Revised NWFL Matchday One Fixtures (November 26, 2025)
Group A
Bayelsa Queens vs Edo Queens
Adamawa Queens vs Pacesetters Queens
Heartland Queens vs Ekiti Queens
Naija Ratels vs Ibom Angels
Group B
Nasarawa Amazons vs Delta Queens
Confluence Queens vs Abia Angels
Sunshine Queens vs Robo Queens
Ahudiyannem Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies
Dannaz Ladies vs Osun Babes
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