Pelican Stars FC Promoted to NWFL Premiership After Win

Pelican Stars Football Club, owned by the Cross River State government, achieved promotion to the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership after a 1-0 victory against DreamStar Ladies FC in the final of the 2026 NWFL Championship Playoffs held at the U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar.

The decisive goal was scored by Blessing Ayila deep into stoppage time. Pelican Stars completed the tournament with an unbeaten record, winning all four matches against various teams, including Ikukuoma Queens (2-1), Gallant Queens (2-0), and Moje Queens (1-0), before triumphing over DreamStar Ladies in the final.

Imo Strikers Queens also secured promotion by defeating Rangers Women FC 5-4 on penalties after a goalless draw. Etta Lawrence Itanya, Chairman of the Cross River State Sports Commission, praised the players and coaching staff for their dedication, while Pelican Stars Chairman, Mrs.

Sefia Francis Aribiah, attributed the team's success to hard work and unity, thanking the state government and supporters.