ABS Ilorin FC has appointed Yusuf Salihu as its new head coach, setting the stage for the 2025/2026 Nigeria National League (NNL) season and reinforcing the club’s reputation as Nigeria’s leading grooming ground for football talent.
The unveiling, held at the Taiwo Awoniyi Media Sports Centre, Kwara SWAN Secretariat, George Innih Stadium, Ilorin, drew excitement among fans who view ABS not just as a club but as a platform where stars are made.
Founded by Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki with a mandate to nurture young footballers, ABS has grown into the Nigerian club with the largest youth development capacity. Its products now play across different leagues worldwide, from Africa to Europe and Asia. Among its proudest exports is Frank Fredricks, the Super Eagles defender who shone brightly in today’s clash against South Africa — proof of the club’s enduring value to Nigerian football.
Coach Salihu, taking over at a crucial time, promised to build on this legacy:
“Football is teamwork. With unity, commitment, and the support of management and fans, we will succeed. My vision is to build a formidable and disciplined team that can compete anywhere and bring laurels to ABS.”
Director of Football, Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka, praised the club’s decision to trust a homegrown coach, pointing to Kwara United’s Coach Tunde Sani who recently lifted the President Federation Cup as an example of what opportunity can achieve.
The management expressed confidence that Salihu will guide ABS into a new era of progress, urging supporters to rally behind the team ahead of the coming season.
With its mix of youthful ambition and a tradition of producing top-tier players, ABS Ilorin FC enters the 2025/2026 campaign with renewed promise — chasing glory at home while continuing to supply Nigerian football with stars who shine on the global stage.
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