The Bayelsa State Government introduced experienced football coach Abdul Maikaba as the new Technical Adviser of Bayelsa United on Thursday. They want him to lead the club back to the Nigeria Premier Football League next season after its relegation.
The Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr Peter Akpe, carried out the unveiling. He said Governor Douye Diri had instructed the newly formed Interim Management Board, headed by Dr Peter Singabele, to ensure the club gets promoted back to the top league.
Akpe stated that the government is dedicated to bringing Bayelsa United back to the NPFL. He expressed confidence in the new technical team.
“As a government, we are committed to ensuring Bayelsa United returns to the NPFL next season. That is the responsibility given to the Interim Management Board, and we believe the new technical crew has the experience and capacity to achieve that objective,” he said.
He also said Maikaba’s appointment shows the government’s desire to place the club among Nigeria’s top football teams. The deputy governor urged the coaching staff to develop a team that reflects a strong local identity. He instructed that about 70 percent of the players should come from Bayelsa State to support local talent and football growth.
Maikaba signed a one-year contract that can be renewed based on how well he performs. He will be assisted by Ngozi Elechi, who was the head coach at Go-Round FC.
After the unveiling, Maikaba thanked the state government for the chance. He said the club’s goal to return to the NPFL was a key reason he accepted the job.
“I accepted this challenge because Bayelsa State is ambitious and determined to return to the Premier League. I will give my best to ensure we achieve that objective,” Maikaba said.
The coach also promised to bring an attacking style of play to the team. “My philosophy of football has earned me the nickname ‘Pep Guardiola of Nigerian football,’ and I will work hard to build a team that the people of Bayelsa will be proud of,” he added.
To prepare for the new season, Bayelsa United will hold a pre-season tournament with 12 teams. This will include the eight quarter-finalists from the last Prosperity Cup. Other teams will be Selena FC, Bayelsa Talents Under-19, Bayelsa United Feeders, and City Boy FC.
The club said the tournament aims to find and develop talented players in the state as they get ready for the campaign to return to the NPFL.
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