Bayelsa United coach Meremu Okara and Pillars forward Ibrahim Mustapha win NPFL awards for February
Bayelsa United Coach Meremu Okara and Kano Pillars forward Ibrahim Mustapha have been honored with the League Bloggers Awards for their outstanding performances in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) in February 2024.
Okara clinched the coach’s award, marking his first win in this category. Despite facing tough competition from December’s winner, Mangut Mbwas of Plateau United, as well as Sporting Lagos’ Paul Offor and Fidelis Ilechukwu of Rangers, Okara’s leadership guided Bayelsa United to three consecutive victories against Gombe United, Akwa United, and Doma United.
During this streak, Bayelsa scored five goals without conceding any, propelling them away from the relegation zone for the first time in the 2023/24 season.
On the other hand, Mustapha, also known as “Yuga,” claimed the player of the month award for his exceptional goal-scoring performances against Heartland, Sunshine Stars, and Katsina United.
Despite Kano Pillars’ struggle to secure wins in these matches, Mustapha’s contributions were remarkable, especially as he reached the milestone of 60 career goals in the NPFL, a feat accomplished by only a few players in the league.
The League Bloggers Awards officials will present plaques to both Okara and Mustapha at their respective club training grounds this week, recognizing their outstanding achievements in February.
