…Crush NAF FC 4–0 in Novelty Match
Joel Ajayi
As preparations intensify for the 2025/2026 Nigeria National League (NNL) season, newly promoted City FC of Abuja have officially unveiled their home and away kits at a glamorous ceremony held on Saturday at the FIFA Goal Project, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
The event drew players, officials, fans, and football stakeholders who gathered to witness a new era for the fast-rising club, fondly known as The Citizens. The new kits, featuring innovative designs and, symbolize the team’s ambition, unity, and pride as they prepare for their debut NNL campaign.
The unveiling was followed by a novelty match, where City FC thrashed NAF FC 4–0, signalling strong intent ahead of the new season.
Speaking after the unveiling, the club’s Chairman and CEO, Chidi Okonkwo, described the event as symbolic of City FC’s identity and unity with the people of the Federal Capital Territory.
“Unveiling is something you see all over the world, and we’re proud to do it here.
“This jersey represents more than just a club — it represents the entire FCT. People might say the team belongs to me, but it truly belongs to everyone in the capital city.”
Okonkwo recalled the clubs near misses in recent seasons, expressing confidence that promotion to the Premier League was now within reach.
“In 2022, we missed promotion by just one point. The following year, the same thing happened. But this time, there’s no playoff, no excuse,” he said. “From the coaching crew to the players, the confidence is high. I believe nothing will stop us this season.”
The chairman emphasized that all logistics, player recruitment, and preparations have been completed, leaving no room for excuses.
“If everything wasn’t in place, I wouldn’t be this confident,” he added. “We just returned from an international tournament in Tanzania. As a former player, I know logistics are key. I’ve done my part now it’s up to the players and technical crew to deliver.”
Looking ahead to their opening fixture against Lobi Stars, a former NPFL side, Okonkwo was clear about his expectations.
“I don’t expect anything less than three points,” he declared. “It’s not about names — it’s about performance. To earn promotion, we must make a statement, and that means beating teams like Lobi Stars and Doma United.”
Okonkwo also praised the new spirit of unity among FCT-based clubs, revealing that past rivalry and division had hindered the capital from having a Premier League team.
Speaking after the team’s emphatic 4–0-win, City FC’s Head Coach, Yamoah Richard, expressed confidence in his players’ readiness for the new season.
“We started from the grassroots and have grown steadily to this point,” he said. “This victory shows the hard work the players have put in. We’re ready for the league, and we urge our fans to stand behind us as we chase promotion.”
On the new kits, Coach Yamoah commended the club management for motivating the players with the fresh look.
“The new jersey is beautiful — it inspires the boys,” he added. “When you look good, you play well. We’ll make sure we justify this trust on the pitch.”
With the new season kicking off and optimism running high, City FC appear well-positioned to make a strong statement in the 2025/2026 NNL campaign, both in style and in performance.
