Lobi Stars Unveil Bala Abubakar as New Technical Adviser
Lobi Football Club on Monday formally unveiled Bala Abubakar as its new Technical Adviser, with a mandate to restore the club’s lost glory and secure a swift return to the Nigerian Premier Football League.
The unveiling ceremony took place in Makurdi and was presided over by the club’s chairman, Phillip Nongo, who also serves as the Permanent Secretary and acting Commissioner, Ministry of Youths, Sports and Creativity.
Nongo said Abubakar’s vast experience in the Nigerian topflight made him the right man for the job, noting that he was already familiar with the club’s environment and expectations.
“We take full responsibility for the relegation of the team, but we are learning fast and firmly. Rebuilding has started with scouting talented players,” Nongo stated.
“We are recruiting younger indigenous players to replace those who can no longer play. No amount of blackmail or ethnic castigating will derail us.”
He expressed optimism that the club would play its home matches in the upcoming Nigeria National League (NNL) season at its Makurdi base, after being forced to host games away from home last season, a factor he said contributed to their relegation.
In his remarks, Abubakar, who hails from Niger State and is returning for a second stint with Lobi FC, vowed to lead the team back to the top division.
“This is my second coming and this is a different ball game altogether. Though this is a difficult terrain, with the support of players and management I will return the club back to the premier league,” he said.
Lobi FC will kick off their NNL campaign in the coming weeks as preparations intensify under the new technical leadership.
