Bayelsa United Appoints Abdul Maikaba as Technical Adviser
Bayelsa State Government has announced the appointment of experienced coach Abdul Maikaba as the new Technical Adviser of Bayelsa United. The unveiling took place on July 16, led by Deputy Governor Dr Peter Akpe, who conveyed Governor Douye Diri’s directive to the freshly inaugurated Interim Management Board, chaired by Dr Peter Singabele, to achieve promotion at the first attempt.
Dr Akpe reiterated the administration’s resolve to restore the club to the top flight, stating, “As a government, we are committed to ensuring Bayelsa United returns to the NPFL next season. That is the responsibility given to the Interim Management Board, and we believe the new technical crew has the experience and capacity to achieve that objective.”
He described Maikaba’s hiring as a clear signal of the government’s determination to rebuild Bayelsa United into one of Nigeria’s leading clubs. Akpe also instructed the coaching staff to prioritize homegrown talent, directing that roughly 70 percent of the squad consist of players from Bayelsa State to bolster grassroots football development.
Maikaba has signed a one‑year contract with an option for renewal based on performance. Former Go‑Round FC head coach Ngozi Elechi will serve as his assistant.
The seasoned tactician, who has previously coached Wikki Tourists, Plateau United, Akwa United, Enyimba, Rangers International and Kano Pillars, said the club’s ambition to regain NPFL status motivated him to accept the role.
“I accepted this challenge because Bayelsa State is ambitious and determined to return to the Premier League. I will give my best to ensure we achieve that objective,” Maikaba declared.
He also promised an attacking style of play, noting, “My philosophy of football has earned me the nickname ‘Pep Guardiola of Nigerian football,’ and I will work hard to build a team that the people of Bayelsa will be proud of.”
In preparation for the upcoming season, Bayelsa United will host a 12‑team pre‑season tournament featuring the eight quarter‑finalists from the last Prosperity Cup, together with Selena FC, Bayelsa Talents Under‑19, Bayelsa United Feeders and City Boy FC. The competition aims to uncover promising players across the state as the club readies its bid for an immediate return to the NPFL.
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