Bayelsa United: Maikaba Targets NPFL Return After 45-Goal Pre-Season

Posted : 07 November 2026

Bayelsa United Technical Adviser Abdul Maikaba is optimistic about securing an immediate return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after his team enjoyed an impressive pre-season campaign, scoring 45 goals in 15 matches.

The Prosperity Boys unveiled their 35-man squad on Saturday at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa as preparations intensified for the 2026/2027 Nigeria National League (NNL) season.

The squad presentation comes ahead of Sunday's opening encounter against Abia Comets of Umuahia, with Bayelsa United determined to launch their promotion campaign on a positive note.

Maikaba's confidence stems from the team's encouraging pre-season performances, during which they recorded victories in most of their 15 matches, suffered just one defeat and displayed considerable attacking quality.

The former Plateau United manager believes the preparations have provided a strong foundation for the challenges ahead, although he recognises that the intensity of competitive league matches will offer a different test.

Speaking ahead of the season opener, Maikaba highlighted the team's attacking potential while stressing the importance of maintaining their momentum.

"Our pre-season performances have given us great confidence. Scoring 45 goals in 15 matches is a testament to the attacking quality within this squad. However, we know that the real test begins on Sunday.

"We are fully focused on starting the season strongly and working collectively towards our ultimate objective of returning Bayelsa United to the NPFL," Maikaba stated.

The newly unveiled squad includes several experienced additions recruited from clubs across the country's top flight and lower divisions.

Among the new arrivals are Vincent Edafe from Warri Wolves, Paul Chidiebere from Rivers United, Chukwuma Emma from Sporting Lagos and Tijani Aleleoju from Shooting Stars.

John Bassey has returned to Bayelsa United for a second spell after leaving Enyimba International, while Akas Tiza joins from Flight FC of Gboko.

Other recruits include Zaidu Mohammed and Haruna Aliu from Gombe United, Nigeria U-20 player Aderemi Samsudeen, Poweide Morris from Abia Comets, Joel Uduak from Bayelsa Starlets and Okardi Inikurogha from Citiboi FC.

The club have also strengthened their senior ranks with the promotion of young talents Godwill Ibomo and Godbless Ayake from their feeder team.

Captain Gabriel Biriduba has assured supporters that the players are fully committed to beginning the campaign with a victory over Abia Comets.

He emphasised that the squad understands the importance of restoring the club's top-flight status and is determined to deliver performances that will make Bayelsa residents proud.

"We understand what this season means to Bayelsans, and we are ready to give everything on the pitch. Our target is to start with a victory against Abia Comets on Sunday.

"We want to make our supporters proud and put smiles on their faces because we know how much this club means to the people of Bayelsa State," Biriduba declared.

Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of the club's Board, Godson Ekadi revealed that nearly four months had been spent assembling a competitive squad in response to the state government's directive to secure promotion.

He reiterated the Board's determination to fulfil Governor Douye Diri's mandate of ensuring Bayelsa United return to the NPFL immediately following their relegation.

"We have prepared the players that will do that for us, and, by the grace of God, on Sunday, we will set the ball rolling, and Bayelsans will be very proud of this team," Ekadi maintained.

With a revamped squad, an impressive pre-season scoring record and a clear promotion objective, Bayelsa United now turn their attention to Abia Comets as their Operation Return to the NPFL campaign officially begins.

Bayelsa United: Maikaba Targets NPFL Return After 45-Goal Pre-Season

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