By Rhoda Godwin, Yenagoa
Yenagoa — The Bayelsa State Government has officially unveiled veteran football coach Abdul Maikaba as the new Technical Adviser of Bayelsa United Football Club, with a clear mandate to secure the club’s immediate return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The unveiling ceremony was performed by the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr. Peter Akpe, who said Governor Douye Diri was unhappy with the club’s relegation and had tasked the newly inaugurated Interim Management Board, chaired by Dr. Peter Singabele, with ensuring promotion back to the country’s top-flight league at the end of the coming season.
Dr. Akpe described Maikaba’s appointment as a deliberate step by the government to reposition Bayelsa United and restore the club to its place among Nigeria’s football elite.
“The government is determined to see Bayelsa United return to the NPFL next season. That is the responsibility entrusted to the Interim Management Board, and we are confident that the new technical crew has the experience and competence to deliver on that mandate,” he said.
The Deputy Governor also directed the coaching crew to prioritize grassroots football development by building a team largely from local talent. He said about 70 per cent of the players should be sourced from Bayelsa State to encourage youth development and strengthen the state’s football structure.
Maikaba signed a one-year contract, with an option for renewal based on performance. He will work alongside experienced coach Ngozi Elechi, the former Go-Round FC manager, who has been appointed as his assistant.
Speaking after his unveiling, Maikaba said the state’s ambition to regain its NPFL status convinced him to accept the appointment.
“I accepted this challenge because Bayelsa State has demonstrated a strong commitment to returning to the Nigeria Premier Football League. That determination inspired me to come here and contribute my experience towards achieving the club’s objective,” he said.
The experienced tactician assured the government, club management, supporters and players of his commitment to delivering success.
“I am fully committed to giving my best. I appreciate the confidence placed in me, and together with the management, technical crew and players, we will work tirelessly to achieve promotion.”
On his coaching philosophy, Maikaba promised supporters an exciting and disciplined style of football.
“Many people refer to me as the ‘Pep Guardiola of Nigerian football.’ That nickname comes with expectations, and I believe our supporters will witness an attractive, disciplined and entertaining brand of football this season.”
In his remarks, Chairman of the Interim Management Board, Dr. Peter Singabele, appealed to journalists to continue supporting the club through balanced and consistent media coverage, describing the media as an important partner in the rebuilding process.
He commended sports journalists for their professionalism and encouraged them to sustain their commitment to promoting Bayelsa United.
“Our goal is to ensure that the activities and achievements of Bayelsa United receive extensive publicity, not only on Arise News but across major media platforms in Nigeria and beyond. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to working closely with you,” Singabele said.
As part of preparations for the new campaign, Bayelsa United will organize a 12-team pre-season tournament featuring the eight quarter-finalists from the last edition of the Prosperity Cup alongside four invited teams—Selena Football Club, Bayelsa Talents Under-19, Bayelsa United Feeders and City Boy Football Club. The tournament is expected to serve as a platform for identifying and developing emerging football talents across Bayelsa State.
Maikaba is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished football coaches, having previously managed several NPFL clubs, including Wikki Tourists, Plateau United, Akwa United, Enyimba FC, Rangers International and Kano Pillars. Renowned for his attacking style of play, he is expected to lead Bayelsa United’s push for an immediate return to the NPFL.
