Enyimba International FC, in a remarkable feat, secured the coveted champions title of the 2022/2023 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) on Sunday, June 11. The defending champions, Rivers United, relinquished their title after a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Enyimba at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Lagos Island. Ekene Awazie gave Enyimba the lead in the 39th minute, but Nyima Nwagua swiftly equalized for Rivers United just three minutes into the second half. Although Rivers United needed a victory to retain their championship status, Enyimba's solid defense foiled their efforts, causing them to drop to third place in the standings. With nine points, they will secure a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup. Enyimba's triumphant victory in the NPFL Super-Six playoffs marks their record-breaking ninth title, accompanied by a +4 goal advantage and a grand prize of N100 million. Surprisingly, Remo Stars secured the second position in the standings with 9 points, surpassing Rivers United based on superior goal difference, and will proudly represent Nigeria in the 2023/24 CAF Champions League, alongside Enyimba FC. Meanwhile, Sunshine Stars celebrated their lone victory of the playoffs with a 3-1 triumph over Lobi Stars. Stephen Chukwude scored the opener for Sunshine Stars in the 22nd minute, elevating them to the fourth spot in the standings, while Lobi Stars ended the tournament at the bottom of the table, failing to secure a win and managing only two points. Bendel Insurance slipped to fifth place and will now strive to secure a continental ticket in their upcoming match against Rangers International in the final of the 2023 Federation Cup. Enyimba's previous NPFL title was earned during the abridged season in 2019, when they emerged victorious in the playoffs with a total of 12 points. The People's Elephant first clinched the NPFL title in 2001, followed by consecutive triumphs in 2002 and 2003. They continued their dominance by securing their fourth and fifth titles in 2005 and 2006, respectively, before adding the sixth and seventh trophies to their collection in 2010 and 2015.
