Remo Stars will start a new chapter in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPL) 2026 campaign when they host Abia Warriors in Akure on Sunday, in one of the key fixtures of matchday 26.
The defending champions are navigating unfamiliar terrain, struggling to move away from relegation danger. After 25 matches, the Sky Blue Stars sit 19th on the league table with 26 points, managing only one win in their last nine encounters.
In contrast, Abia Warriors, currently fifth with 39 points, are looking to arrest a four-game winless streak after a goalless draw against Enugu Rangers in the recent Oriental Derby. Despite the dip in form, the Umuahia-based side remain strong contenders for a continental qualification spot and will view the Akure clash as an opportunity to solidify their top-five standing.
Earlier this season, Abia Warriors defeated Remo Stars 2-0 at the Umuahia Township Stadium. The visitors will aim to replicate that performance in neutral territory, while historical clashes show tightly contested matches with wins shared across the last five meetings.
For Remo Stars, the challenge extends beyond matchday performance. Akure represents the fifth home venue of a season plagued by disruptions. The club began the season in Abeokuta during renovations at their Ikenne stadium, returned briefly to Ikenne, but crowd disturbances led to a league-imposed ban, forcing subsequent relocations.
A temporary stint at Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, was marred by poor pitch conditions, prompting another move. Their first fixture at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin ended in a 2-1 defeat to Plateau United, before finally settling in Akure to complete the remainder of their home ban.
Sunday’s fixture against Abia Warriors is the first of three matches in Akure, followed by encounters with Katsina United and Nasarawa United, which will conclude their ban period. Remo Stars are then scheduled to return to Ikenne for the final stretch of home fixtures, including games against Kwara United, Shooting Stars, Niger Tornadoes, and Bayelsa United.
As they seek points and stability, the clash with Abia Warriors marks a crucial step in a season defined by upheaval, testing both resilience and adaptability in the Nigeria Premier League 2026.
