Remo Stars have officially etched their name into Nigerian football history! The Sky Blue Boys secured their first-ever Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State.
Second-half substitute Olamilekan Adedayo proved to be the hero of the day, firing home a stunning winner in the 84th minute to seal a monumental triumph. The stadium erupted in joyous celebration as Remo Stars confirmed their place at the summit of Nigerian football — and with three games to spare.
A Victory Years in the Making
The 2024/2025 NPFL season has been nothing short of spectacular for Remo Stars. After finishing third in the 2021/22 season and as runners-up in both the 2022/23 and 2023/24 campaigns, the Ogun State-based club finally climbed to the pinnacle, achieving what had eluded them for years.
Their latest win, their 21st of the season, moved them up to an impressive 69 points — a commanding 10-point lead over second-placed Rivers United — ensuring no team could catch them with three matches still left to play.
Hard-Fought Battle Against Tornadoes
Knowing that a win would guarantee them the title, Remo Stars came out with intent but met stiff resistance from a relegation-threatened Niger Tornadoes side.
Alex Oyowah thought he had given the hosts an early lead inside the opening five minutes, only to see his header ruled out for offside. That early setback seemed to briefly blunt Remo’s urgency, allowing Tornadoes to grow into the game.
Chances were few and far between in the first half. Tornadoes’ Williams Sunday had a tame effort easily gathered by Remo goalkeeper Adebiyi Obassa, while Remo struggled to break down the visitors’ defense.
After the break, Remo Stars ramped up the pressure. Sikiru Alimi’s powerful header was saved point-blank by Tornadoes’ shot-stopper Enaholo, while Alex Oyowah rattled the crossbar with a follow-up effort. The visitors defended heroically, making crucial goal-line clearances and denying Remo multiple times.
However, head coach Daniel Ogunmodede made a decisive move, introducing Olamilekan Adedayo and Samson Olasupo in the 79th minute. Just five minutes later, Adedayo justified the tactical change, smashing a belter that kissed the underside of the crossbar and crossed the line — sparking wild celebrations.
Although Tornadoes protested the goal, there was no stopping destiny. Remo Stars were crowned NPFL champions — becoming the first team from the Southwest to win the title since Julius Berger achieved the feat in 1991.
A Perfect Birthday Gift for Kunle Soname
The historic achievement coincided perfectly with the 59th birthday of Remo Stars founder Kunle Soname. The club’s triumph served as a fitting birthday present for the man whose vision and investment have transformed Remo Stars into one of Nigeria’s elite football institutions.
Notably, Remo Stars’ title is also historic beyond their own walls. It marks the first time in 20 years that a privately-owned club has lifted the NPFL trophy, underlining the progress and growing influence of privately-backed teams in Nigerian football.
What’s Next?
While Remo Stars bask in the glory of their hard-earned title, Niger Tornadoes now face a tense end to their season. They sit just two places above the relegation zone, with only a two-point cushion over 17th-placed Heartland.
The race for survival is far from over for the Tornadoes, but for Remo Stars, it’s time to celebrate a season of resilience, ambition, and ultimate glory.
