Niger Tornadoes were handed a cash reward of ₦2 million following their hard-fought 1-0 win against Rivers United in a rescheduled Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) matchday 26 fixture.

The encounter, played at the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna, was settled by Terdoo Shimagande, whose decisive strike ensured maximum points for the hosts.

The reward was confirmed shortly after the final whistle by Niger State Sports Commission chairman, Danjuma Abdul Masu, as the club’s hierarchy moved to recognise the team’s effort.

The victory lifts Tornadoes to 10th on the table with 39 points from 30 matches, easing pressure on the side as the season enters its final stretch.

Technical adviser Majin Mohammed believes the result could prove a turning point.

“We will build on this momentum, as results like this help to lift the team’s spirit,” Mohammed assured the club’s supporters.

The Minna-based side now turn their attention to a tricky away tie against Abia Warriors at the Umuahia Township Stadium, where they will look to string together back-to-back wins for the first time in weeks.

For Rivers United, who remain top of the standings despite the setback, the defeat adds pressure ahead of their next outing as the title race tightens.

NPFL Matchday 31 Fixtures:

Saturday, 21 March

Wikki Tourists vs Barau
4 p.m.

Sunday, 22 March

Kano Pillars vs Enyimba
3:30 p.m.

Plateau United vs Bayelsa United
4 p.m.

Katsina United vs Shooting Stars
4 p.m.

Kun Khalifat FC vs Ikorodu City
4 p.m.

Enugu Rangers vs El-Kanemi Warriors
4 p.m.

Remo Stars vs Kwara United
4 p.m.

Warri Wolves vs Bendel
4 p.m.

Monday, 23 March

Nasarawa United vs Rivers United
4 p.m.

Abia Warriors vs Niger Tornadoes
4 p.m.