NPFL: Ranchers Bees Secure Promotion After Topping NNL Conference D

Ranchers Bees have sealed their return to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) after finishing top of the Nigeria National League (NNL) Conference D table.

The Kaduna-based side clinched the conference’s sole promotion ticket despite a 2-0 defeat away to Gombe United. Their place at the summit was confirmed after closest challengers Jigawa Golden Stars also stumbled, suffering a heavy 3-0 loss on the road against Kebbi United.

This marks a significant milestone for the Bees, who are back in Nigeria’s top-flight league for the first time since their relegation at the end of the 2009/10 season.

Ranchers Bees will be joined in the NPFL by fellow promoted sides Sporting Lagos, Inter Lagos, and Doma United ahead of the 2026/27 campaign. All four teams are now set to travel to Ikenne in May, where they will compete in the Super Four tournament to determine the overall NNL champions.