Akwa United today claimed their first-ever NPFL championship after they defeated visiting MFM FC 5-2 at the Nest of Champions in Uyo.
‘The Promise Keepers’, as they are known by their fans, have recorded an unassailable 71 points from 37 matches with a final round of matches still to be played.
They will now be one of two Nigerian clubs to feature in next year’s CAF Champions League.
The team bankrolled by oil-rich Akwa Ibom State Government only needed a point today to be champions.
They were cheered on by their fans after the league organisers approved for spectators to occupy 30% of the stadium.
Striker Charles Atsimene put Akwa United ahead in the 24th minute, before MFM let in an own goal in the first half stoppage time through Alimi Adebayo.
Experienced striker Mfon Udoh extended the lead in the 62nd minute, before the visitors pulled a goal back six minutes later through a penalty converted by Michael Mbonu.
Atsimene grabbed his brace five minutes from full time.
MFM FC then scored a consolation in the 88th minute courtesy of Dennis Obasi and the home team completed the scoring in added time for Atsimene to complete his hat-trick.
He has now tied Silas Nwankwo of Nasarawa United at the top of the goals charts with 18 goals.
The final matches in the Nigeria league will be played on Thursday with second-placed Nasarawa United, Enyimba, Kano Pillars and Rivers United still in contention for two continental competition tickets.
