Akwa United NNL promotion Sporting Lagos secured as Uyo club narrowly miss out on Nigeria Premier League return by one point in Conference B

Akwa United have expressed disappointment after narrowly missing out on promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League, as Sporting Lagos secured the sole promotion ticket from Conference B of the Nigeria National League (NNL).

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Sporting Lagos Edge Akwa United in NNL Promotion race ended in heartbreak for the Uyo-based side, who finished just one point behind Sporting Lagos after a closely contested campaign that went down to the final day.

The club entered the season aiming for an immediate return to the top flight following last season’s relegation, with strong backing from Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, who had urged the team to rebuild and secure promotion.

Despite a resilient effort that included an unbeaten home record, three away victories and a draw on the road, Akwa United were unable to overtake their rivals in Conference B.

Club chairman Joseph Eno described the outcome as painful but fair, while also congratulating Sporting Lagos for their achievement in a fiercely competitive race.

He noted that the team ended their campaign on a positive note with a 2–1 win over Solution FC in Awka, adding that lessons would be taken into the next season as the club regroups.

Akwa United also extended appreciation to supporters, sponsors and partners, including Ibom Air, for their consistent backing throughout the season.

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While league ambitions have ended, the club remains active in the President Federation Cup, where they will look to salvage silverware before the end of the campaign.