Ahead of the Nigeria National League (NNL) end of season play off (Super 8) ,it has become imperative to showcase the coaches in the four Conferences that picked the eight available tickets.
We begin with Conference C and D where four of the tickets were pocketed by :Coaches Abdul Maikaba of Wikki Tourists Football Club of Bauchi and Coach Rabiu Tata of Barau FC of Kano in Conference C.
For Conference D: Coaches Ibrahim Sani of Yobe Desert Stars and Akinade Onigbinde of Doma United FC of Gombe.
Leading the pack of Coaches who distinguished themselves with their performance at the regular period of the NNL League is Coach Abdul Maikaba, a seasoned veteran with plenty years of experience, boasts of an NFF /CAF C license and serves as an instructor. The 60 years old Abdul is with a storied coaching career, he’s led teams like FC Abuja, Enugu Rangers International, and AKwa United Kano Pillars to success.
An FA Cup /NPFL winner , Coach Maikaba returns to Wikki Tourists with a determination to guide them back to the Nigeria Premier Football League after a successful qualification to the Super Eight.”
“Lets meet Coach Rabiu Tata, the mastermind behind Barau Football Club’s remarkable rise.
Taking over from veteran coach Salisu Yusuf, Tata, affectionately known as “The Elephant,” has brought his expertise to the newly formed and privately owned team
At 52, he’s a seasoned coach with an impressive track record, having mentored teams like Jigawa Golden Stars, Kebbi United, Shekarau FC, and Malumfashi FC. Known for his gentlemanly demeanor and unwavering confidence, Coach Tata is the surprise package in the Nigerian National League.
With Barau FC’s unexpected promotion to the Super Eight, he’s definitely one to watch.”
“Coach Ibrahim Mohammed Sani, affectionately known as ‘Sallau Naira,’ is the mastermind behind Yobe Desert Stars’ remarkable journey. At 41, he’s proven himself as a determined and gutsy coach, defying expectations to lead his team to the Super Eight.
A former player for Yobe Desert Stars, Coach Sani has a deep understanding of the game, holding a coaching license from the Nigerian Institute of Sports. Having qualified Yobe Stars to the NPFL as a player in the past, he’s now replicated that success as a coach. His determination and tenacity have drawn comparisons to coaches like Emerse Faé. With his sights set on the Super Eight, Coach Sani is poised to make a lasting impact.”
“Coach Akinade Onigbinde, a seasoned tactician from Oyo State, has been instrumental in Doma United’s journey. At 56, he’s a veteran coach with a proven track record, having led teams like Kwali FC of Abuja, Sat FC of Lagos, and Road Safety FRSC FC.
A recipient of the prestigious AITEO Cup Coach Award for consistency, Coach Onigbinde faced relegation with Doma United last season but has since bounced back, guiding them to a Super Eight ticket. Known for his discipline and doggedness, he’s been retained by Doma United, and he’s optimistic about returning the team to the NPFL.
The Super Eight tournament will be a crucial test of his abilities.”
