Pacesetter Queens, a women’s football team owned by the Oyo State government, has earned a spot in the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) for the 2025/26 season. The team acquired the slot previously held by Benue Queens, marking their first-ever appearance in the top-tier league. This development was confirmed by Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Alhaja Wasilat Adefemi Adegoke.
As part of their setup, Pacesetter Queens will serve as the official women’s team of Shooting Stars, a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side. This affiliation is expected to provide the team with the necessary support and resources to compete at the highest level. The South-West region of Nigeria is now represented by seven teams in the NWFL, including Robo Queens, Dannaz Ladies, Remo Stars Ladies, Castmog Ladies, Sunshine Queens, Osun Babes, and Pacesetter Queens.
The NWFL has undergone significant changes in recent years, with efforts to improve the competitiveness and visibility of women’s football in Nigeria. The league has seen an increase in participation and investment, with several teams benefiting from partnerships with state governments and private organizations. The addition of Pacesetter Queens is expected to further enhance the league’s reputation and attract more fans to women’s football in the country.
The kickoff date and fixtures for the new season are set to be announced during the league’s Annual General Assembly in Port Harcourt on October 29, 2025. This event will bring together stakeholders, team officials, and players to discuss key issues and set the stage for the upcoming season. With the inclusion of Pacesetter Queens, the NWFL is poised for an exciting and competitive season, with fans eagerly anticipating the start of the new campaign. As the league continues to grow and develop, it is likely to play an increasingly important role in promoting women’s football in Nigeria and beyond.
