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Maikaba Sets One-Year Deadline for Bayelsa United’s NPFL Return

Posted : 24 August 2026

Bayelsa United technical adviser Abdul Maikaba has set his sights firmly on securing an immediate return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), insisting the Prosperity Boys have no intention of spending more than one season in the Nigeria National League (NNL).

Maikaba, who signed a one-year contract with the Yenagoa-based club, stated that his mandate is clear — guide Bayelsa United back to the elite division at the end of the 2026/27 NNL season.

The former Kano Pillars coach spoke after Bayelsa United defeated De Go-Pro FC of Sapele in a pre-season friendly, saying the exercise was useful in assessing players as the club continues to build its squad.

“I am satisfied with the display and the way they played,” Maikaba said, while explaining that the club is still recruiting and will retain only players capable of adding value to the team.

The coach disclosed that more than 60 players are currently in camp, with the squad expected to be trimmed to the NNL limit of 35 players before the start of the campaign.

According to Maikaba, a combination of quality friendly matches and intensive training will help the technical crew identify the best players for the promotion challenge.

“We have more than sixty players in camp. We are gradually trimming down to our maximum of 35,” he said. “That is why I have a one-season contract — to do the job in one year.”

The tactician also welcomed the challenge of competing in a difficult Conference B, insisting that Bayelsa United are prepared to face every opponent on their schedule without selecting preferred teams.

Bayelsa United will compete alongside Beyond Limit FA of Ogun, Solution FC of Anambra, Akwa United of Akwa Ibom, Smart City FC of Lagos, Right-2-Win FC of Abia, Dokka Khairu FC of Osun, Abakaliki FC of Ebonyi and Ekiti United of Ekiti.

With the NNL season scheduled to commence on October 31, Bayelsa United are expected to use additional friendly matches to sharpen their squad, correct weaknesses and establish the team Maikaba believes can secure promotion at the first attempt.

The opening fixture of the new NNL campaign will see Heartland of Owerri host Crown FC of Ogbomosho.

 

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