Bayelsa United ready for NNL return bid, says Maikaba

Published on: 03 November 2026

Bayelsa United technical adviser Abdul Maikaba says his team are fully prepared to begin their campaign to regain promotion to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

The Prosperity Boys open their 2026/27 Nigeria National League (NNL) season against Abia Comets of Umuahia on 8 November 2026 at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.

Bayelsa United were relegated from the top flight last season and are aiming to return at the first attempt after an encouraging pre-season.

Their preparations ended with a 4-1 victory over Ogunbor United FA of Sapele at Southern Delta University in Ozoro, Delta State. Maikaba said the result reflected the progress made by his squad during their build-up to the new campaign.

“The boys have responded very well,” Maikaba said after the match.

Bayelsa United scored 35 goals in 10 pre-season games, a record the experienced coach believes demonstrates the team’s effectiveness in attack.

“Scoring 35 goals in 10 games shows that we are creating and converting our chances,” he said.

“While we still need to fine-tune a few areas, overall, I am very satisfied with our progress.”

The victory over Ogunbor United FA brought an encouraging preparation period to a close, with Maikaba declaring his players in peak condition before their opening NNL fixture.

Bayelsa United will now look to carry their strong pre-season form into competitive football as they begin their effort to secure an immediate return to the NPFL.

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