Aliyu Zubairu bids farewell to El Kanemi Warriors

Photo Credit – El Kanemi Warriors.

The head coach of Nigeria U-20 national team, Aliyu Zubairu has officially announced his departure from Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side El Kanemi Warriors Football Club of Maiduguri, bringing an end to his two-year tenure with the club.

Zubairu didn’t extend his contract with the team after the expiration of two year deal and confirmed his departure in a farewell message to the Maiduguri based side.

The move is to ensure that he focus on the Flying Eagles job. Zubairu while addressing the club’s management, players, fans, and the people of Borno State, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve the club, highlighting the major milestones achieved under his leadership.

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the management, staff, players, and fans for their unwavering support over the past two years. My time with the club has been filled with incredible memories and milestones that have further cemented the team’s reputation in Nigerian football history,

After careful consideration, I’ve decided not to renew my contract, which expires at the end of my two-year tenure.

This decision stems from my confidence that I’ve made a meaningful contribution to the club’s growth and development. And in my habitual self, it’s time to move on to the next chapter of my career.”

He also added special thanks were reserved for the leadership of Borno State, including Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, the Commissioner for Sports Honourable Saina Buba, and the Chairman of the Borno State Football Association, Alhaji Babagana Kalli, for their unwavering support throughout his tenure.

“I’m eternally grateful to His Excellency, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State, for his unwavering support. I also thank the Borno State Commissioner for Sports, Honourable Saina Buba, and Chairman of Borno State Football Association, Alhaji Babagana Kalli, for their invaluable support.

While I’m leaving this club, I don’t see this exit as an end to our relationship but as a new chapter in my journey. Borno will always remain a home to me and dear to my heart.

Thank you again for the opportunity to be part of this amazing team. Mugode Sosai.”

Zubairu’s ties to El Kanemi Warriors span beyond coaching, having also represented the club as a player. His leadership and vision played a pivotal role in elevating the team’s performance and reestablishing its identity as a competitive force in Nigerian football.

Coach Aliyu Zubairu leaves behind a lasting legacy at El Kanemi Warriors, and his next steps in Nigerian football will be closely followed by fans and analysts alike. Zubairu lead El Kanemi Warriors to the 2024 President Federation Cup and also lead the Maiduguri side back to the NPFL in that same season.