Maikaba targets immediate NPFL return with Bayelsa United

Bayelsa United Technical Adviser Abdul Maikaba says his assignment at the club is straightforward — guide the Prosperity Boys back to the Nigeria Premier Football League at the first attempt.

Appointed after the Prosperity Boys’ relegation from the top flight, Maikaba has signed a one-season contract and says promotion at the end of the 2026/27 Nigeria National League campaign is the target.

Speaking after his team’s pre-season victory over De Go-Pro FC of Sapele, Maikaba said the technical crew is still assessing players as it works towards assembling a squad capable of challenging for promotion.

 “I am satisfied with the display and the way they played,” Maikaba said. “But the truth is, we are assessing the players because we are recruiting. We are looking to see who will add value to the team, and any player who will not add value, we will let him go.”

The former Kano Pillars, Enyimba and Plateau United coach revealed that more than 60 players are currently being assessed, with the number expected to be reduced to a maximum squad of 35 before the start of the season.

 “We have more than sixty players in camp. We are gradually trimming down to our maximum of 35,” he said.

“With quality games and proper training, we will pick the best. That is why I have a one-season contract to do the job in one year.”

Bayelsa United will compete in Conference B of the NNL alongside Beyond Limits FA, Solution FC, Akwa United, Smart City FC, Right-2-Win FC, Dokka Khairu FC, Abakaliki FC and Ekiti United.

Despite the quality of opposition in the group, Maikaba insists the Prosperity Boys will not seek an easy route to promotion.

“We are in the NNL to face any team. We are not here to handpick opponents. Any team we are drawn with, we are ready to face. The target is to qualify for the Premier League in one season.”

The 2026/27 NNL season is scheduled to begin on October 31, with Heartland FC hosting Crown FC of Ogbomosho at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, in the season-opening fixture.