Bayelsa United Appoints Maikaba as Head Coach, Aims for Top-Flight Relegation Reversal

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The Bayelsa State Government on Thursday unveiled experienced football coach, Abdul Maikaba, as the new Technical Adviser of Bayelsa United, charging him to guide the club back to the Nigeria Premier Football League next season following its relegation.

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The unveiling was performed by the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr Peter Akpe, who said Governor Douye Diri had directed the newly inaugurated Interim Management Board, led by Dr Peter Singabele, to ensure the club secured immediate promotion to the top flight.

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Akpe said the government remained committed to restoring Bayelsa United to the NPFL and expressed confidence in the new technical crew.

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“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.

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He described Maikaba’s appointment as a demonstration of the government’s determination to reposition the club among Nigeria’s top football sides.

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The deputy governor also directed the coaching crew to build a team with a strong grassroots identity, instructing that about 70 per cent of the players should be sourced from within Bayelsa State to promote local talent and football development.

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Maikaba signed a one-year contract, renewable based on performance, and will be assisted by former Go-Round FC head coach Ngozi Elechi.

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Speaking after his unveiling, the former Wikki Tourists, Plateau United, Akwa United, Enyimba, Rangers International, and Kano Pillars coach thanked the state government for the opportunity, saying the club’s ambition to regain NPFL status influenced his decision to accept the role.

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“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.

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The coach also pledged to introduce an attacking style of play.

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“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.

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As part of preparations for the new season, Bayelsa United will stage a 12-team pre-season tournament featuring the eight quarter-finalists from the last edition of the Prosperity Cup, alongside Selena FC, Bayelsa Talents Under-19, Bayelsa United Feeders and City Boy FC.

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According to the club, the competition is aimed at identifying and developing talented players across the state as preparations intensify for the campaign to secure an immediate return to the NPFL.

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