Niger Tornadoes Face Forced Exodus from Bako Kantagora Stadium

The Bako Kantagora Stadium, once a fortress for Niger Tornadoes FC, now stands embroiled in controversy. On January 30, 2026, the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) issued a decree that sent shockwaves through the football community. The stadium, nestled in Minna, has been declared unfit for premier matches. The reason? A stringent new broadcast and television rights agreement demanding enhanced technical and infrastructural standards.

This decision was not made lightly. Davidson Owumi, the Chief Operating Officer of NPFL, formalized the announcement with an official letter. The clock is ticking for Niger Tornadoes. With the NPFL's ultimatum, the club has until the close of business on February 2, 2026, to decide their fate. Two options lie before them: the Rasheed Yekini Main Bowl in Ilorin or the Jos Zaria Road Stadium. But what if they miss the deadline? The NPFL has made it clear: failure to choose will result in a unilateral decision made on their behalf.

This isn't just about finding a new home. It's part of a broader NPFL initiative to uplift stadium standards, aligning with their broadcast commitments and branding strategies. As Niger Tornadoes deliberate, fans hold their breath. Will they rise to the challenge and adapt, or will this relocation mark a downturn in their season? As the next scheduled NPFL fixture looms, the decision could shape the destiny of the club's current campaign.