2026 President Federation Cup: El-Kanemi Target Redemption Against Ikorodu City in Final

Posted : 09 July 2026

El-Kanemi Warriors will be aiming to salvage an otherwise disappointing campaign when they take on Ikorodu City in the 2026 President Federation Cup final on Saturday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State.

The Maiduguri-based side, recently relegated from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), sees the domestic cup final as an opportunity to restore pride and give its supporters something to celebrate after a difficult season.

Head coach Kabiru Dogo admitted that the club's relegation remains a painful experience, offering an apology to the club's supporters and the Borno State Government while expressing determination to end the season with silverware.

"I sincerely apologise to our supporters and the people of Borno State for our relegation. It is still difficult to explain because we never expected it. At times, it felt like it was destined to happen despite all our efforts," Dogo told NationSport.

The former Lobi Stars, Nasarawa United, and Sunshine Stars coach said winning the President Federation Cup would provide some consolation despite the disappointment of dropping into the second tier.

"Winning the President Federation Cup will not completely erase the pain of relegation, but it will certainly put smiles back on the faces of our supporters. That is our focus now, and the players are fully committed to giving everything to bring the trophy home," he said.

Dogo expressed confidence in his team's preparedness for the final, noting that his players understand the importance of the occasion and are eager to finish the campaign on a positive note.

Beyond Saturday's showdown, the veteran tactician called on the Borno State Government, the club's management, and other stakeholders to unite behind El-Kanemi Warriors to ensure an immediate return to the NPFL.

"Everyone connected with the club must put El-Kanemi Warriors first. The club should not be politicised because that will only hinder progress. We need unity and a shared commitment to rebuilding the team," he said.

He also advocated a merit-based recruitment process for next season, insisting that quality, rather than sentiment, should guide the rebuilding exercise.

"The management must work together and ensure that players are recruited strictly on merit. The club needs the best available players, not selections based on sentiments. If we get that right, I believe El-Kanemi Warriors can return to the top flight immediately," Dogo added.

El-Kanemi Warriors will be seeking their first President Federation Cup title in years, while Ikorodu City is chasing a historic first major domestic trophy.

The final presents both clubs with a significant opportunity, as El-Kanemi Warriors aim to end a difficult season with silverware while Ikorodu City pursues a landmark achievement in the club's history.

2026 President Federation Cup: El-Kanemi Target Redemption Against Ikorodu City in Final

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