NPFL Updates: Wikki Tourists Appoint Abubakar, Shooting Stars Sign Akala

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clubs have intensified preparations for the 2026/2027 season, with several teams strengthening their squads and making key decisions off the pitch.

The Central African Republic goalkeeper Alladoum Kolimba has attracted interest from Katsina United following the expiry of his contract with Remo Stars.

Kolimba previously enjoyed a successful spell with the Chanji Boys in 2023, recording 16 clean sheets in 36 appearances and collecting several Man of the Match awards. Katsina United are reportedly eager to reinforce their goalkeeping department before the new campaign, although nine-time NPFL champions Enyimba are also monitoring the experienced shot stopper.

Shooting Stars have also strengthened their squad with the signing of midfielder Olakunle Akala from Kano Pillars. The midfielder has signed a one-year contract with the Oluyole Warriors after playing a prominent role for the Kano club last season.

Akala confirmed his departure in an emotional farewell message to Kano Pillars.

“Special thanks to our team leaders, coaches, teammates and our amazing supporters for the support you have given me throughout this great organization. It’s really a pride for me to wear Kano Pillars shirt,” Akala stated in his statement.

“Thank you for making me feel like home from the first day I came. I will never forget the beautiful memories I had and the memories I built here.

“As I start a new chapter in my football life, I walk with a heart full of gratitude and respect to all related to Kano Pillars.”

Elsewhere, Ranchers Bees have completed the signing of experienced left-back Faisal Sani on a two-year contract from Katsina United. Sani, who has also featured for 2025 NPFL champions Remo Stars, is expected to add quality and experience to the Kaduna club’s defence as they prepare for life back in the top flight.

Meanwhile, Sunshine Stars have declared David Igoche Absent Without Official Leave (AWOL) after the player failed to report for pre-season training since the team’s resumption in June.

In a statement signed by club manager Gabriel Aborowa, the Nigeria National League side warned clubs, agents and other stakeholders against entering into transfer negotiations involving the player without the club’s approval.

Sunshine Stars maintained that Igoche remains under contract and continues to receive his contractual entitlements as the club prepares for the 2026/27 campaign.

At Wikki Tourists, the Bauchi-based side have appointed Bala Abubakar as their new technical adviser. The Bauchi Elephants unveiled the CAF B Licence holder in Bauchi earlier today, July 4, as they stepped up preparations for the new Nigeria National League (NNL) campaign.

Abubakar arrives with a solid coaching pedigree, having previously managed Lobi Stars, Niger Tornadoes, Katsina United and Doma United. Wikki Tourists believe the young tactician has the technical quality to guide the club back to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after missing out on promotion last season.