Gateway United FC have been relegated from the Nigeria National League (NNL) following a 3-0 defeat to Godswill Akpabio FC in their final match of the 2025 season played in Uyo.
The defeat marks the end of Gateway United's 15-year stay in Nigeria's second-tier football league, with the Abeokuta-based club now set to compete in the Nationwide League One (NLO) next season.
Season Performance
Throughout the 2025 NNL season, Gateway United managed to secure only six wins in their 20 matches in Group B. The team also recorded five draws and suffered nine defeats, which ultimately proved insufficient to maintain their NNL status.
The crucial relegation decider against Godswill Akpabio FC in Uyo ended in disappointment for the Gateway side, who needed a positive result to avoid the drop.
Following the match, Gateway United released a statement acknowledging the setback while maintaining optimism: "The journey takes a detour, but the dream lives on."
What's Next
The relegation means Gateway United will now compete in the Nationwide League One, Nigeria's third-tier football competition, as they begin their campaign to return to the NNL.
This development comes at a time when other NNL teams like Osun United have qualified for the Super Eight playoff tournament, while teams like Wikki Tourists are preparing for the same competition.
The NLO, where Gateway United will now compete, recently suspended its playoff tournament in Shagamu, adding another layer of uncertainty to the club's immediate future.
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