The management of Calabar-based Pelican Stars FC and Imo-based Imo Queens Strikers FC have expressed their delight following their teams’ promotion to the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) ahead of the 2026/2027 season.
After an intense battle for promotion in Calabar, the Cross River State capital, both clubs secured their places among the elite teams in Nigerian women’s football for the forthcoming campaign.
Pelican Stars sealed promotion with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Dream Stars. Blessing Ayila’s late winner proved decisive, earning the Calabar side a place in the 2026/2027 NWFL season.
Meanwhile, it was a clash of the titans as Imo Queens Strikers overcame Rangers Women in a dramatic encounter.
After a fiercely contested match, the Imo-based side triumphed 5-4 on penalties to book their place in the top flight for the 2026/2027 season.
In separate statements released on their official social media platforms, the management of both clubs praised their players for their resilience, determination, and character throughout the promotion campaign.
They also commended their respective technical crews for their dedication and hard work, describing the achievement as the realisation of a long-held dream.
With their successful promotion, Pelican Stars FC and Imo Queens Strikers FC will compete in the regular season of the 2026/2027 Nigeria Women’s Football League.