KANO, Nigeria — The management of Kano Pillars Football Club has suspended its Technical Adviser, Usman Sheriff Abdallah, and Chief Coach, Ibrahim Musa, following a poor run of results in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The club announced the suspension in a statement released on Sunday, citing underperformance and unprofessional conduct as reasons for the decision. The four-time NPFL champions have struggled in recent weeks, winning only one of their last five matches.

“The management of Kano Pillars FC has decided to suspend Technical Adviser Usman Abdallah and Chief Coach Ibrahim Musa with immediate effect due to the team’s unsatisfactory performance,” the statement said. “The decision is aimed at restoring discipline and improving results.”

According to the statement, Assistant Coach Ahmed Garba, also known as Yaro Yaro, will take charge of the team in an interim capacity, assisted by other members of the coaching crew. The management added that the suspension will remain in effect pending the outcome of a review by the club’s disciplinary committee.

Kano Pillars’ latest setback came after a goalless draw against Bayelsa United at the Sani Abacha Stadium, a result that drew boos from home supporters. Witnesses said Abdallah reacted angrily to some fans’ comments after the match, an incident the club described as “unacceptable.”

“The club’s leadership views the reaction of the technical crew as inappropriate and unbecoming of professionals representing Kano Pillars,” the statement added.

The club’s chairman, Alhaji Muhammad Umar, said the decision was necessary to protect the integrity of the club and uphold its standards. “Kano Pillars is a big institution with a proud history. When performance drops and discipline is questioned, the management must act. This suspension is not punishment but a corrective measure,” he said.

Abdallah, who was appointed at the start of the 2024–2025 season, was tasked with rebuilding the team and leading them back to the top of the NPFL table. However, inconsistent performances and a lack of goals have kept the club in mid-table, far below expectations.

In an interview with local media, Abdallah acknowledged the team’s struggles but urged fans to remain patient. “We are going through a difficult phase, but this is football. Sometimes things don’t go as planned,” he said. “I respect the management’s decision and hope the team bounces back stronger.”

Kano Pillars are one of Nigeria’s most successful clubs, boasting four league titles and a large fan base across the country. The team has also produced several top players who went on to play for the Super Eagles and clubs abroad.

Football analysts say the club’s decision reflects growing pressure on NPFL teams to deliver consistent results amid increased competition in the league. “Kano Pillars’ move shows that clubs are no longer tolerating mediocrity,” said sports journalist Abdul Rahman Musa. “Fans demand results, and managements are responding faster than before.”

The club’s supporters have expressed mixed reactions to the development. Some backed the suspension, saying it could help revive the team’s fortunes, while others criticized the management for acting too hastily.

As the interim coaching team takes charge, Kano Pillars will face a crucial test in their next NPFL fixture against Kwara United. A win could ease pressure on the club, but further poor results might lead to deeper changes in the technical setup.

For now, the club’s management says its focus is on restoring confidence and getting back to winning ways. “Our goal remains the same — to compete for honors and make our fans proud,” the statement said. “We will not compromise on professionalism, discipline, or performance.”

The suspension marks a decisive moment for Kano Pillars as they seek to reclaim their place among Nigeria’s football elite. Whether the changes will spark a turnaround remains to be seen, but expectations in Kano are clear — results must improve, and quickly.