NNL

Stormers chairman vows swift return to NNL after relegation

By Emmanuel Chinedu

Posted on May 14, 2024

Abeokuta’s Stormers Sports Club chairman, Chief Bukola Olopade, has vowed a swift return to the Nigeria National League (NNL) following their relegation to the Nationwide League.

Olopade believes proper restructuring, strategic planning, and unwavering commitment from players and coaches will propel the team back to professional football.

Stormers’ 2023/2024 NNL campaign ended in disappointment. They finished bottom of their 12-team Group A with a meager 24 points, managing only 7 wins, 3 draws, and a staggering 12 losses. Their 16 goals scored paled in comparison to Group A champions Madiba FC, who netted 30 more goals and secured promotion with 40 points.

Olopade, a former Ogun State Youth and Sports Commissioner, acknowledges the team’s shortcomings. “Stormers’ performance fell below expectations,” he declared from his Lagos office. “Positive changes are necessary to return to greatness.”

He assigns blame for the relegation to both players and the technical crew. However, Olopade remains optimistic about the future. “A new plan is underway for the 2024/2025 season,” he revealed. “Stormers will return to the NNL sooner than anyone anticipates. Our ultimate goal is promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) – and we’ll achieve it through hard work and investment in young talent who see their future with Stormers.”