Lobi Stars retain 17 players, overhaul squad for NNL promotion push

Posted : 31 May 2026

Lobi Stars FC have retained 17 players as the club begins an extensive rebuilding process aimed at securing an immediate return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) ahead of the 2026/27 Nigeria National League (NNL) season.

The Makurdi-based club announced the restructuring following recommendations from its Players' Contract Review and Verification Committee, which assessed the team's performance during the just-concluded 2025/26 season.

As part of the exercise, the club confirmed that 17 players will form the nucleus of the squad for the upcoming campaign. Those retained include Kumaga Suur, Kwambe Solomon, Odinaka Francis, Akile Monday, Iteji Jimmy, Onah Peter, Agugu Benjamin, Foga Dominic, Imenger Barnabas Jnr, Kongbenda Joseph, Uja Manasseh, Sunday James, Atsaka Daniel, Egiga Valentine, Afeez Yusuf, Azeez Tijanni, and John Akende.

Management said the move reflects its determination to build a stronger and more competitive side capable of challenging for promotion back to the NPFL.

However, the restructuring also saw the departure of 18 players. Those released include Orya Joseph, Daniel Abah, Atavti Samuel, Eyigege Pius, Achiv Douglas, Eru Jackson, Amia Kenneth, Ingbila Henry, Ofem Emmanuel, Itim Paul, Yanmar Moses, and Iorliam Eric.

Six other players also left the club following the expiration of their loan deals. They are Bello Raji Egigogo, Edeh Chukwuebuka, Amara Christian, Ifeanyi Ezema, Jonathan John Abu, and Okoh Chukwuma.

Beyond the playing squad, Lobi Stars have made significant adjustments to their technical and developmental structures. Assistant coaches Benjamin Kude and Mathias Asongu have been redeployed to the club's U-19 team, where they will work alongside Stephen Waghbo, who joins from the Benue State Sports Council.

Former Lobi Stars goalkeeper Jighjigh Ahungwa has been appointed goalkeeper coach of the feeder team, while ex-defender Odeh Ogah takes up the role of Assistant Team Manager of the U-19 side.

The club described the changes as part of a long-term strategy to strengthen both the senior and youth teams while creating a pathway for emerging talents.

Lobi Stars also disclosed that replacements for the redeployed assistant coaches will be unveiled before the team's resumption on June 20, with full pre-season preparations scheduled to begin a day later.

Club officials remain optimistic that the ongoing restructuring will provide the foundation for a successful NNL campaign and help restore the club's place among Nigeria's elite football teams.

The extensive squad overhaul and technical adjustments underscore Lobi Stars' clear ambitions for the upcoming 2026/27 campaign. By balancing the retention of key core players with critical backroom updates, the management is laying down a solid foundation. These definitive steps are strategically designed to ensure an immediate return to the top tier of Nigerian football.

Lobi Stars retain 17 players, overhaul squad for NNL promotion push

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics