The Pelican Stars Football Club, which operates under the Cross River State government, successfully qualified for the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Premiership. This promotion was secured following a narrow 1-0 win against DreamStar Ladies FC during the 2026 NWFL Championship Playoffs held in Calabar.
In the final moments of stoppage time, Blessing Ayila scored the decisive goal at the U.J. Esuene Stadium. This win solidified an undefeated streak for the Cross River team throughout the entire tournament. The club dominated the competition, winning all four of their matches against opponents such as Ikukuoma Queens, Gallant Queens, and Moje Queens.
Another promotion spot was claimed by Imo Strikers Queens, who won a penalty shootout against Rangers Women FC after regulation time ended in a 0-0 draw. Etta Lawrence Itanya, the Cross River State Sports Commission Chairman, praised the squad for their commitment to this goal. Furthermore, Pelican Stars Chairperson Sefia Francis Aribiah attributed their return to the top league to the collective focus and discipline of the players, technical staff, and supportive state officials.
