The 2025 Zenith Bank Women’s Basketball Premier League will tip off in Lagos on Tuesday, September 16, with record prize money and heightened anticipation for a thrilling season.
League Chairperson, Perpetual Clement, confirmed the development in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), describing the upcoming Final-8 Playoffs as the most exciting in the competition’s history.
This year’s prize package is unprecedented: champions will take home ₦7.5 million, runners-up ₦5 million, and third place ₦3 million. Individual awards for MVP, Top Scorer, Highest Assists, Best Shooter, and Top Rebounder each carry ₦500,000, while the Conference Champion will earn ₦1 million.
The playoffs will feature eight top teams, including defending champions MFM Queens, at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos, from Sept. 16–20. Day one fixtures include Air Warriors vs. Royal Aces at 10 a.m., First Bank vs. Bayelsa Whales at noon, Titans vs. Nigeria Customs at 2 p.m., and the headline clash between MFM Queens and Lagos Dolphins at 4 p.m.
Clement praised the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) and title sponsor Zenith Bank for their unwavering support in elevating women’s basketball, noting that their commitment has boosted infrastructure, competitiveness, and opportunities for female athletes nationwide.
“Going by FIBA rules, our referees are qualified. We have top-notch FIBA referees who guarantee fair and credible officiating,” said Clement, a former D’Tigress star.
She described the transformation of the league as remarkable compared to her playing days:
“This year’s edition is set to be the best yet. The arena feels like the WNBA—this is truly the WNBA of Nigeria.”
Clement also commended NBBF President Musa Kida for his relentless dedication to growing the sport, adding that the 2025 edition promises to set new standards for Nigerian women’s basketball.