Barau Football Club has secured promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for the 2025/2026 season, making it the club’s first-ever appearance in the country’s top division.
The promotion came after a 2-0 win over Doma United in their final Group A match at the NNL Super 8 Playoffs held on Thursday in Asaba, Delta State.
Usman Maidubji scored in the 9th minute, followed by another from Shammasu Muhd in the 16th, with both goals assisted by Sa’idu Salisu.
Barau FC ended the group stage with two draws and a win, earning five points—same as group leaders Wikki Tourists but behind on goal difference. That finish was enough to grab one of the four promotion slots to the NPFL.
“This is not just a victory on the pitch—it’s a statement of what dedication, planning, and belief can achieve. Barau FC is proud to represent Kano State and looks forward to its debut in the NPFL,” the club’s media officer, Ahmad Hamisu Gwale, said in a statement.
He described the achievement as “a historic milestone,” noting that the team has moved up from the Nationwide League One (NLO) to the Nigeria National League (NNL), and now to the NPFL.
Barau FC had earlier drawn their opening two games—against Yobe Desert Stars and Wikki Tourists. The win over Doma United sealed their place in the NPFL.
The club credited its progress to Technical Adviser Rabi’u Tata, whose strategies were key to their performance in Asaba.
Supporters, officials, and board members from across Nigeria were present at the stadium for the match.
With Barau FC’s promotion, Kano State will now have two teams in the NPFL—Kano Pillars and Barau FC—who will join clubs like Enyimba, Remo Stars, Rivers United, Enugu Rangers, El-Kanemi Warriors, and Katsina United in the new season.
The club says it is now focusing on preparing a squad capable of competing in the top flight.
