By Aderonke Ojo
As preparations gather pace for the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, the 20 participating clubs have confirmed their respective technical handlers, with a blend of experienced campaigners, former Super Eagles coaches and emerging tacticians set to lead the teams.
Here is a look at the coaches and their profiles:
Abia Warriors — Imama Amapakabo
Imama Amapakabo joined Abia Warriors in 2024 and guided the club to a CAF Confederation Cup ticket in 2025, securing the qualification for the first time in the club’s history since its formation from the defunct OUK United.
Barau FC — Eugene Agagbe
CAF B Licence holder Eugene Agagbe guided Barau FC to an impressive eighth-place finish in the 2025/26 NPFL season. He also led the club to the quarter-finals of the 2026 President Federation Cup.
Bendel Insurance — Kennedy Boboye
The Delta-born tactician took charge of Bendel Insurance in 2025, succeeding Greg Ikhenoba. The two-time NPFL title-winning coach helped the Benin Arsenals maintain their top-flight status last season with a series of impressive results.
Doma United — Deji Ayeni
Following their return to the NPFL, Doma United appointed Deji Ayeni to lead the team into the new campaign. Ayeni has previously managed Sunshine Stars, Enyimba and Akwa United.
Enugu Rangers — Fidelis Ilechukwu
Fidelis Ilechukwu recently earned his UEFA B Coaching Licence after completing a coaching programme in Scotland. The 47-year-old is also an assistant coach with the Super Eagles and a two-time NPFL title-winning coach.
Enyimba — Emmanuel Deutsch
Emmanuel Deutsch was appointed head coach of Enyimba International FC last season following approval from Abia State Governor Alex Otti. He holds CAF A, B and C coaching licences and has previously worked with clubs in Nigeria and Cameroon.
Ikorodu City — Bright Ozebagbe
Bright Ozebagbe guided Ikorodu City in their historic first NPFL match against Kano Pillars at the Muhammad Dikko Stadium in Katsina.
Inter Lagos — Shakiru Biodun Giwa
Shakiru Biodun Giwa was appointed Inter Lagos coach in 2025. He previously managed Stationery Stores and helped the club secure promotion to the NPFL from the Nigeria National League (NNL).
Kano Pillars — Daniel Ogunmodede
Former Remo Stars coach Daniel Ogunmodede, an NPFL title winner, took charge of Kano Pillars on a two-year contract ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Katsina United — Azeez Mohammed
Azeez Mohammed is expected to oversee Katsina United’s campaign, with his coaching approach built around discipline, dedication and an understanding of the modern game. He has been working to improve the team and assemble a competitive squad.
Kun Khalifat FC — Obinna Uzoho
Obinna Uzoho, popularly known as the “African Ten Hag,” will lead the Owerri-based club in its NPFL campaign. He previously managed Papilo FC in Owerri and helped Kun Khalifat secure promotion to the top flight.
Kwara United — Ashifat Sulyman
Ashifat Sulyman was elevated from chief coach to head coach of Kwara United following the departure of Tunde Sanni last season.
Nasarawa United — Mangut Mbwas
Plateau State-born Mangut Mbwas, 48, has previously coached Heartland, Wikki Tourists and Enugu Rangers. He holds a CAF B Coaching Certificate, regarded as the second-highest coaching qualification in African football.
Niger Tornadoes — Kabiru Dogo
Kabiru Dogo joined Niger Tornadoes on a three-year contract after previous spells with Nasarawa United and Kwara United. Most recently, he guided El-Kanemi Warriors to the final of the 2026 President Federation Cup.
Plateau United — Gbenga Ogunbote
Veteran tactician Gbenga Ogunbote, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s experienced coaches, took over as Technical Adviser of Plateau United after his most recent stint with Shooting Stars.
Ranchers Bees — Usman Abdallah
Newly promoted Ranchers Bees have appointed former Remo Stars tactician Usman Abdallah as their head coach on a two-year contract.
Rivers United — Finidi George
Former Super Eagles head coach Finidi George was appointed manager of four-time NPFL champions Rivers United in 2024. He previously won the NPFL title with Enyimba and signed a deal to remain with the Port Harcourt club until 2026.
Shooting Stars — Salisu Yusuf
Veteran coach Salisu Yusuf returns to the NPFL after managing several clubs, including Kano Pillars, FC Taraba, Enyimba, Rangers, Nasarawa United, El-Kanemi Warriors and Lobi Stars. He has also served in senior coaching roles with the Nigeria national team and the Home-Based Super Eagles.
Sporting Lagos — Jeffrey Buter
Jeffrey Buter guided Sporting Lagos, popularly known as the “Tech Boys,” back to the NPFL after being elevated to the position of head coach in 2025. He holds English FA and Scottish FA coaching licences and is currently completing his UEFA C Licence.
Warri Wolves — Hassan Abdallah
Hassan Abdallah, who holds CAF B and C coaching licences, takes charge of Warri Wolves. He has previously coached Katsina Spotlight FC, Kano Pillars and Heartland, while also gaining experience as an assistant coach with Nigeria’s U-20 national team and the Super Eagles.
With a mixture of established title-winning coaches, experienced tacticians and younger managers, the 2026/27 NPFL season promises to provide another competitive battle on the touchline as clubs target domestic success and continental qualification.
Recalled that 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions were Rangers International of Enugu.
Rangers secured the title on 24 May 2026, defeating Ikorodu City 2–1 on the final day. The victory gave the Flying Antelopes their ninth Nigerian league title, moving them level with Enyimba as the clubs with the most NPFL titles.
Final top three:
1. Rangers International
2. Rivers United
3. Shooting Stars (3SC)
Interestingly, Fidelis Ilechukwu was Rangers coach when they won the 2025/26 title.
