Abia Warriors head coach Imama Amapakabo is on the brink of a sensational move to Kano Pillars, with the veteran tactician expected to become one of the highest earners in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The 54-year-old has agreed personal terms with the four-time league champions, and Pillars are now prepared to activate the release clause in his contract with Abia Warriors to seal the deal.
Amapakabo’s stock has soared after masterminding Abia Warriors’ best-ever NPFL season, finishing third in the 2024/2025 campaign and qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup for the first time in the club’s history.
Under his leadership, the Umuahia-based side registered:
18 wins
6 draws
14 losses, Finishing on 60 points, enough to secure their first taste of continental football.
Imama with Abia Warriors Chairman John Obuh during his unveiling in 2024. Photo Credit: X
He took charge of the team at the start of the season, following Bethel Oji’s departure after a Federation Cup final appearance in 2023/24.
Pillars Rebuild Under Ahmed Musa Begins
Kano Pillars are undergoing a major restructuring following a turbulent campaign that saw them finish 9th under erstwhile gaffer Usman Abdallah.
15 wins
8 draws
15 losses
The club recently appointed Super Eagles legend Ahmed Musa as General Manager, ushering in a new chapter on and off the pitch.
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Musa, who is also expected to return as a player, will lead both administratively and in the dressing room aiming to steer Sai Masu Gida back to the summit of Nigerian football.
Amapakabo’s expected arrival is viewed as a key piece of that rebuild.
Amapakabo’s Managerial Journey
Amapakabo previously led Enugu Rangers to a historic 2016 NPFL title, ending the club’s 32-year drought.
He also had spells with El-Kanemi Warriors and briefly served on the Super Eagles coaching staff.
Imama Amapakabo at Abia Warriors. Photo Credit: X
This move to Pillars would mark his second exit from Abia Warriors, having previously managed the club in 2020 before returning for a second stint ahead of the just-concluded season.
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His tactical acumen and experience on the continent are expected to bring fresh direction to a Kano Pillars side hungry for silverware and stability.
