Lobi Stars Football Club has appointed Abubakar Bala as their new Technical Adviser as the club begins rebuilding with the aim of securing promotion back to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The announcement was made during a press briefing in Makurdi, where Chairman Dr Philip Nongu and board members addressed the media.
Dr Nongu, who also serves as the Acting Commissioner for Youth, Sports, and Creativity, revealed that the new administration inherited a team burdened with a two-month salary backlog and ongoing challenges left by the previous management.
Highlighting recent efforts, Dr Nongu outlined plans to overhaul the technical staff, recruit young and local talents, restructure salaries, and improve welfare benefits, including match bonuses and feeding allowances.
Photo Credit: Lobi stars media
He also provided updates on renovations at Aper Aku and McCarthy stadiums, with Akume Atongo Stadium designated as a backup home venue if necessary.
READ MORE: paul-onuachu-leads-nigerian-show-in-trabzonspor-super-lig-victory
Coach Bala, who previously had a successful spell with Lobi Stars, signed a new contract and pledged to build a competitive squad based on merit and quality.
“We don’t discuss formations outside the pitch our focus is on delivering results on it,” he said.
The event concluded with a minute’s silence in honour of Akin Olowokere, assistant coach of Shooting Stars, who passed away earlier that day.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL
Bala’s return to Lobi Stars comes after recent coaching roles at Katsina United, Doma United, and Sunshine Stars, reflecting his experience within Nigerian football circles ahead of the 2025/26 Nigeria National League (NNL) season.
