The win took the Savannah Tigers to 26 points from 13 matches in NNL Conference C, five points clear of second-placed FC Basira with one game remaining. This marks a swift comeback to the elite division just two seasons after relegation.
Latest Updates: Promotion Clinched in Style
Doma United entered the Matchday 13 fixture knowing a victory would mathematically confirm top spot in Conference C under the new direct promotion format. They delivered a professional display, overcoming Mighty Jets with two well-taken goals to spark wild celebrations among home fans.
The result ends any chance for rivals to catch them, as even maximum points from remaining matches cannot close the gap. Coach Najib Mabu described the campaign as “smooth but challenging,” praising his players’ consistency throughout the season.
NNL 2025/26 Conference C Standings (After Matchday 13)
| Pos | Club | P | W | D | L | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Doma United (P) | 13 | 8 | 2 | 3 | +9 | 26 |
| 2 | FC Basira | 13 | 6 | 3 | 4 | +4 | 21 |
| 3 | Lobi Stars | 13 | 6 | 2 | 5 | +1 | 20 |
| 4 | Sokoto United | 13 | 5 | 3 | 5 | -1 | 18 |
| 5 | Kada Warriors | 13 | 4 | 5 | 4 | 0 | 17 |
| 6 | City FC | 13 | 4 | 4 | 5 | -3 | 16 |
| 7 | ABS FC | 13 | 4 | 2 | 7 | -7 | 14 |
| 8 | Mighty Jets | 13 | 4 | 1 | 8 | -3 | 13 |
Background and New Promotion Format
Doma United, also known as the Savannah Tigers, suffered relegation from the NPFL in the 2023/24 season but mounted a strong recovery in the second tier. Their promotion comes under the revamped NNL structure introduced after the league’s Annual General Meeting.
The competition now features four conferences (A, B, C, and D). The top team in each conference gains automatic promotion to the NPFL, replacing the previous Super 8 playoff system. This change aims to reward consistency across the regular season and reduce logistical challenges.
Doma United topped Conference C with an impressive record of 17 goals scored and only 8 conceded, losing just three matches all season.
Impact and Implications
The promotion returns top-flight football to Gombe State and boosts morale for stakeholders in the region. For Doma United, it provides time to plan recruitment, strengthen the squad, and ensure Pantami Stadium meets NPFL licensing standards.
Three more promotion spots remain open across the other conferences, keeping the race intense as the season enters its final stretch. The new format also introduces a Super 4 competition at season’s end to crown the overall NNL champion.
What’s Next for Doma United
With promotion already secured, Doma United will play their final Conference C fixture against Kada Warriors. Coach Mabu has indicated the team will now shift focus toward NPFL preparations, including potential signings and infrastructure improvements.
The club aims not only to survive in the top flight but to compete for honours and even target a continental ticket in the 2026/27 season.
Doma United’s promotion highlights the rewards of stability and hard work in Nigerian football. As the Savannah Tigers roar back into the NPFL, fans across Gombe and beyond will be watching eagerly to see how they fare among Nigeria’s elite clubs next season.