Kano Pillars have announced the appointment of Muhammad Babaganaru as their new acting technical adviser, following the suspension of head coach Evans Ogenyi and his assistant, Ahmed Garba Yaro.

The decision comes after a disappointing start to the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League season, with the club seeking to reverse their fortunes under new leadership.

In an official statement released on Tuesday, the club confirmed Babaganaru would take charge immediately as the team looks to regain its competitive edge.

“The management of Kano Pillars FC wishes to announce the appointment of Muhammad Babaganaru as the acting technical adviser of the club. He will resume with immediate effect. We wish Coach Babaganaru success in his new role as he leads the Sai Masu Gida in upcoming fixtures,” the statement read.

This marks a significant return for Babaganaru, who is no stranger to the club. He previously guided Pillars to back-to-back league titles in the 2011/12 and 2012/13 seasons, establishing one of the most formidable teams in Nigerian football at that time.

His reappointment is seen as a strategic move to restore stability and confidence within a squad that has struggled for consistency.

Pillars’ struggles have been evident, with just two wins, two draws, and four defeats from their first eight matches. They currently sit 18th in the league table, deep in the relegation zone.

Their latest setback came in a 2-1 loss to city rivals Barau FC in a behind-closed-doors derby at the Sani Abacha Stadium, a result that reportedly sealed Ogenyi’s fate.

Before Babaganaru’s appointment, the club’s management had placed assistant coach Gambo Muhammad in temporary charge, assisted by goalkeeping coach Suleiman Shuaibu and youth coach Garzali Muhammad.

However, the return of the veteran coach now signals a fresh attempt to revive the team’s fortunes. With just eight points from eight matches, Babaganaru’s first task will be to restore belief and urgency in the dressing room.

Pillars will next host Niger Tornadoes in Katsina before traveling to Ikenne to face Remo Stars. These matches will be crucial tests for the newly assembled technical team.