Akande Targets NPFL Return After Appointment as Crown FC Technical Director

Posted : 09 July 2026

The newly appointed Technical Director of Crown FC, Fatai Akande, has pledged to lead the club back to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after his official unveiling by the Oyo State Government.

Akande, who was unveiled in Ibadan on Tuesday, said he was honoured by the confidence reposed in him and promised to use his experience to reposition the Ogbomoso-based Nigeria National League (NNL) side ahead of the 2026/2027 season.

“The task is clear: build, compete, and win. I am ready to give my best to ensure Crown FC returns to where it belongs,” he said.

The former National Coordinator of the Football Coaches Association of African Nations (FCAAN) described the appointment as an opportunity to contribute to the growth of football in his home state.

Akande, widely regarded as a promotion specialist, has guided three clubs to higher divisions during his coaching career, including leading Ijebu United to the NNL within three years.

A former player of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) and Crown FC, Akande holds a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH). He is a CAF B Licence holder, FCAAN B-certified coach, possesses an FA Learning Coaching Certificate, and a Certificate in Sports Medicine from the Olympic Committee.

Speaking at the unveiling, Oyo State Commissioner for Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, said Akande’s appointment forms part of the government's efforts to strengthen Crown FC's technical structure and restore the club to the NPFL.

She expressed confidence in his ability to build a competitive team while also helping the club maximise the commercial opportunities available in modern football.

According to the commissioner, football has evolved into a major business, and the government expects the new Technical Director to complement its investment in sports by driving both sporting success and commercial growth.

Akande is expected to begin work immediately as Crown FC intensifies preparations for the new NNL season with the target of securing promotion to the NPFL.

His appointment reflects Crown FC's determination to strengthen its technical department and mount a serious challenge for promotion during the upcoming campaign.

Akande Targets NPFL Return After Appointment as Crown FC Technical Director

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