Lobi Stars on Tuesday unveiled experienced tactician Bala Nikyu as their new head coach, handing him a clear mandate to return the club to the Nigeria Premier Football League in 2027, while warning that players and coaches who fail to meet expectations would be shown the exit.
The club’s chairman, Terver Ikya, said Nikyu’s appointment followed a thorough assessment of his experience, technical competence, commitment and integrity, expressing confidence that he possesses the leadership needed to guide the club back to the top flight.
He said the management remained determined to rebuild a formidable side capable of securing promotion during the 2026/2027 season.
“Lobi Stars has a proud history, a passionate fan base and enormous expectations. We will provide the necessary support to ensure the coach succeeds,” Ikya said.
The chairman disclosed that the club had retained 17 players and had identified areas requiring reinforcement ahead of the new season.
He, however, warned that only committed and result-oriented players would be retained.
“Lobi has gone beyond screening. We know what we want and go for it. We want players who will give us results,” he said.
Ikya issued a stern warning to players and members of the coaching crew, insisting that indiscipline, poor commitment and disloyalty would no longer be tolerated.
“We will not tolerate indiscipline among players and coaches. There must be total loyalty and, if it is not given, we will not hesitate to sack.
“The team must gain promotion and there won’t be excuses. I am taking my fate into my own hands. I won’t pity anyone. I am very confident of our promotion,” he declared.
He thanked Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, for the consistent funding of the club and the confidence reposed in the management, pledging that the team would justify the support.
Ikya also appealed to supporters and other stakeholders to continue standing behind the club as it pursues an immediate return to the elite league.
Responding, Nikyu pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him by building a disciplined and competitive squad capable of winning promotion to the NPFL.
The CAF A Licence holder and instructor has previously served as head coach of the home-based Super Eagles, assistant coach of the Super Falcons, and has managed Wikki Tourists, Katsina United, Nasarawa United and Gombe United.
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