Kun Khalifat FC has steadily climbed Nigeria’s professional league, closing in on a top-tier NPFL debut, just five years post-formation.
In 2020, the club entered the Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO), starting at the third tier of the national system.
After one season, they secured promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL) in 2021. However, they handed the spot to FC One Rocket and didn’t participate that year.
Following a strong 2024 campaign, Kun Khalifat won the NLO Playoffs, defeating De Sapele Lions at the Lekan Salami Stadium. Their return to NNL proved crucial in reestablishing their pursuit of top-flight football.
Currently, the club is competing in the 2025 NNL Super 8 Playoffs, a decisive tournament that determines promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
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Despite being the youngest team in the tournament, Kun Khalifat has secured their promotion, showing tenacity against more experienced sides.
Super 8 performance and implications
In the first match on July 5, Kun Khalifat beat Crown FC 1–0, gaining an early advantage. But on July 7, they lost 3–0 to Warri Wolves, putting pressure on their final group game.
As for the last match, they beat Osun United with 2 goals to 1 on July 9—securing their qualification into the top-flight football.
Leadership and discipline
The club owes much of its recent rise to head coach Obinna Uzoho, who has instilled structure, discipline, and tactical intelligence. His coaching has built a balanced and competitive team.
Players like goalkeeper Obinna Akuchie and defender Obinna Amaefula have brought leadership on the pitch. Akuchie, in particular, has voiced clear belief in the team’s NPFL aspirations.
The club’s move to Dan Anyiam Stadium in 2025 mirrors its readiness for greater challenges. That change signifies their ambition and reflects a growing operational structure.
Their promotion marks a transformative moment for grassroots football and the football community in Imo State.
As they succeed, they will now join the NPFL top-flight, as a model of accelerated, deliberate progression.
