President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Rangers International Football Club following their triumphant victory in the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season. Describing the achievement as a new, proud chapter in the illustrious history of one of Nigeria’s most iconic football institutions, the President lauded the Enugu-based side for clinching a record ninth NPFL title.

The Flying Antelopes secured the championship on the final day of the season, overcoming Ikorodu City FC in a tense, title-deciding encounter held in Lagos. This dramatic conclusion capped one of the most exciting league races in recent NPFL history. Rangers finished the season at the top of the table with an impressive 68 points from 38 matches, successfully fending off their closest challengers, Rivers United FC.

In a statement issued on Monday by his special adviser, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commended the players, the coaching crew, the management, and the dedicated supporters of Rangers International for their exceptional achievement. He highlighted the collective effort and resilience that led to this significant victory for the club.

The President also took a moment to reflect on Rangers’ profound historical legacy within Nigerian and African football. He recalled the club’s era of dominance during the 1970s and 1980s, a period when they emerged as one of the continent’s most respected teams. Among their notable past achievements, President Tinubu specifically mentioned Rangers’ impressive run to the final of the 1975 African Cup of Champions Clubs and their historic triumph in the 1977 African Cup Winners’ Cup, which marked them as the first Nigerian club to win a major continental title.

Furthermore, President Tinubu extended his congratulations to Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, acknowledging his administration's vital role in the club's success. He stated, “This victory is an obvious fruit of his administration’s investments in youth and sports in the state. I commend him,” recognizing the impact of state-level support.

The President emphasized Rangers’ enduring status as one of Nigeria’s oldest clubs, noting its tradition of producing some of the nation’s finest football players who have gone on to represent the country with distinction on the global stage. “I am proud of their achievement,” he added, reinforcing the club's importance to national football.

Beyond celebrating Rangers, President Tinubu also commended Rivers United for their spirited performance throughout the season, acknowledging their efforts in pushing the title race to the very final day and for displaying commendable sportsmanship. He concluded by extending his best wishes to both Rangers International FC and Rivers United as they prepare to represent Nigeria in next season’s prestigious CAF Champions League.

Under the astute leadership of coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, Rangers International has now secured two league titles in three seasons, solidifying their resurgence and re-establishing themselves as a dominant force in domestic football.