Akwa United Send Emotional Message to Fans After NPFL Relegation

Former Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions Akwa United have sent an emotional message to their fans, apologising for their relegation from the top flight after the 2024/25 season.

In a club statement released by the management, Akwa United expressed deep disappointment and regret over their failure to retain their NPFL status, admitting the outcome was both painful and embarrassing for the club, its supporters, and the people of Akwa Ibom State.

“We fought hard as a club throughout the season to find our rhythm, but our results, especially at home, were not good enough. We dropped 18 points at home and picked just 5 on the road,” the statement read.

The Uyo-based club was relegated following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Heartland FC on the final day of the season. The decisive goal was scored just two minutes into the match at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri by Heartland’s Isaac Nassy.

It was a must-win game for both sides, but while Heartland still had a chance of survival based on other results, Akwa United’s slim hopes depended entirely on a victory and favourable outcomes elsewhere. Unfortunately, neither happened.

Coach Kennedy Boboye, who returned mid-season in an effort to save the club, could only watch as his team failed to bounce back after the early setback. Despite showing some fight, the Promise Keepers couldn’t find the cutting edge needed to change their fate.

Akwa United ended the season with 44 points, not enough to escape relegation, as Katsina United, Niger Tornadoes, and El-Kanemi Warriors all got results that kept them safe.

Reflecting on their fall from the top, Akwa United acknowledged their journey through the Premier League over 14 seasons – a spell in which they won two FA Cups (2015 and 2017) and a historic league title in 2021.

“This situation is hugely disappointing and embarrassing to the government, the people of our state, our fans, supporters, partners and sponsors,” the club stated. “Now is the time to show love, strength and unity more than ever.”

Despite the setback, the club promised to bounce back stronger, noting that this was not the first time they had faced such a challenge.

“We have gone this path before and rallied back to the top. Next season may not be an exception, by the grace of God,” the statement added.

The club also thanked its number one supporter, Governor Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, for his continued backing, as well as Elder Paul Bassey, the Honourable Commissioner for Sports, for his motivation and support.

Akwa United ended by appealing to fans and sponsors to continue showing support as the club now turns attention to the National League, with one clear goal — a swift return to the Premier League.