NNL: Bayelsa United Return to Training, Eye Immediate NPFL Promotion
The club’s board says this is a crucial season, with Governor Douye Diri’s administration fully behind a push to bounce straight back to the top flight.
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Bayelsa United have begun preparations for the 2026/27 Nigeria National League season, holding their first training session at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.
The opening session, marking the start of the club’s pre-season programme, was overseen by assistant coach Ngozi Elechi, with Anderson West also helping supervise the drills. Players went through light fitness work and tactical sessions as the coaching staff assessed their physical condition ahead of a more demanding schedule to come.
More players are expected to join the squad in the coming days as preparations build toward the Bayelsa United/Prosperity Cup pre-season tournament in Yenagoa. The club is targeting an immediate return to the NPFL, in line with the vision of Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri.
Before training got underway, board member Godson Ekarde urged the players to approach the new campaign with discipline, commitment, and a winning mentality, describing the season as a crucial one for the club. He reaffirmed the management’s commitment to giving the team the support needed to compete strongly in the NNL and secure promotion, while challenging both players and coaching staff to repay that faith with improved, more consistent performances.
Did You Know?
- Bayelsa United train at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.
- The club was relegated from the NPFL at the end of last season.
- Abdu Maikaba was recently appointed Bayelsa United’s new head coach, alongside his role with Nigeria’s Flying Eagles.
- The club is preparing to host the Bayelsa United/Prosperity Cup pre-season tournament in Yenagoa.
- Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has publicly backed the club’s push for an immediate return to the NPFL.
- Ngozi Elechi is currently serving as assistant coach overseeing early training sessions.
- The Nigeria National League sits directly below the NPFL in Nigeria’s football pyramid.
