By Ado Salisu
El-Kanemi Warriors and Nasarawa Amazons emerged champions of the 2026 President Federation Cup after defeating debut finalists Ikorodu City and Heartland Queens respectively in thrilling finals played at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba on Saturday.
In the women’s final, debutants Heartland Queens put up a spirited performance against the experienced Nasarawa Amazons. After a goalless first half, Chizoba Johnson gave Heartland Queens the lead early in the second half.
However, Coach Christopher Danjuma’s Nasarawa Amazons fought back, with Judith Adaobi scoring the equaliser to force the match into a penalty shootout.
The Lafia-based side held their nerve to win 6-5 after the shootout extended into sudden death, securing another President Federation Cup title.
In the men’s final, El-Kanemi Warriors claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory over first-time finalists Ikorodu City. Muktari Ismail scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot in the first half, while the Maiduguri side produced a disciplined defensive display to withstand sustained pressure from Ikorodu City after the break.
With the victory, El-Kanemi Warriors secured Nigeria’s slot in the 2026/27 CAF Confederation Cup, joining Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), who qualified after finishing third in the Nigeria Premier Football League.
Individual Award Winners
Women’s Competition
Champions: Nasarawa Amazons
Runners-up: Heartland Queens
Most Valuable Player (MVP): Ayatsea Hembafan (Nasarawa Amazons)
Top Scorer: Peace Effiong (Rivers Angels) – 4 goals
Best Goalkeeper: Udoka Unachukwu (Nasarawa Amazons)
Men’s Competition
Champions: El-Kanemi Warriors
Runners-up: Ikorodu City
Most Valuable Player (MVP): Muktari Ismail (El-Kanemi Warriors)
Top Scorer: Imam Bala Magaji (Wikki Tourists) – 6 goals
Best Goalkeeper: Temitope Suleiman (El-Kanemi Warriors)