Kun Khalifat make U-turn, returns to NPFL after withdrawal

Kun Khalifat FC have made a dramatic U-turn and returned to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), just a day after withdrawing from the competition over what they described as unfair sanctions.

The Owerri-based club announced its return in an official statement on Thursday, saying it reached an understanding with the League Management Board following “positive discussions”.

Kun Khalifat had earlier pulled out of the NPFL after the league sanctioned the club for failing to honour a match against El-Kanemi Warriors, a decision that sparked controversy within the domestic football scene.

However, in the latest statement signed by the club’s Chief Executive Officer, Michael Amaefula, Kun Khalifat confirmed that the issues had been resolved and that the club had been reinstated with immediate effect.

Amaefula said the club was pleased with the outcome of its engagement with the NPFL Board, noting that both parties had agreed to put their differences behind them in the interest of the game.

The statement partly reads: “Michael Amaefula, CEO of Kun Khalifat FC, expresses the club’s delight at the constructive dialogue with the NPFL Board as we are happy to put our differences behind us and focus on the beautiful game. We appreciate the League Management Board’s willingness to listen and address our concerns. We look forward to a more collaborative and productive relationship moving forward.

The club has been reinstated and is set to resume its NPFL campaign with immediate effect. Kun Khalifat FC will face Shooting Stars of Ibadan in their next match, scheduled to take place at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri on Sunday, 8th February 2026.

“We are calling on all our fans in Owerri and beyond to come out in their numbers to support the team. This is a crucial match for us, and we need the backing of our supporters to get a positive result.”

Following their announcement, the club says they will resume their NPFL campaign with a home fixture against Shooting Stars of Ibadan on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri.

The club also urged fans to turn out in large numbers to support the team, describing the match as crucial to their season.

Kun Khalifat further thanked supporters for their patience and loyalty during the period of uncertainty, promising exciting football and an unforgettable matchday experience as the league campaign resumes.

Culled from vanguard