Imama Amapakabo Set to Arrive in Kano for Final Talks with Pillars
SportsRation can exclusively confirm that former Abia Warriors head coach, Imama Amapakabo, is expected to arrive in Kano, Saturday, July 12, 2025, to conclude talks over a deal that could see him take charge of Kano Pillars ahead of the new season.
Currently in Lagos, Imama is set to travel tomorrow to meet with Pillars officials and finalise an agreement that may be officially announced before the end of the weekend. Sources close to the tactician say he has made up his mind to part ways with Abia Warriors following a difficult season, despite leading the club to their first-ever CAF Confederation Cup qualification.
Tensions in Umuahia as Imama Nears Exit
Imama’s anticipated move comes at a crucial moment for Abia Warriors. While the club is still celebrating its historic continental qualification, there is growing tension within the camp due to the coach’s continued absence from pre-season training, which started Friday in Uyo.
His departure, if confirmed, would be a significant blow, as he played a central role in building the squad for the upcoming CAF campaign. Club insiders told SportsRation that the 55-year-old coach had to use his personal funds to run some team operations last season—one of several frustrations believed to have pushed him toward the exit.
Kano Pillars Offer Fresh Start and Stability
Kano Pillars, meanwhile, are believed to have assured Imama of a more structured and supportive working environment. The club’s new General Manager, Ahmed Musa—the former Super Eagles captain—has reportedly given strong guarantees of a professional setup that has appealed to the experienced coach.
Musa’s appointment has already injected fresh optimism into Pillars’ camp, and luring Imama is seen as a critical step in their push to return to the top tier of Nigerian football.
Warriors Fans Feel Let Down
In Umuahia, the news of Imama’s expected exit has left many fans disappointed. “This feels like betrayal,” one supporter told SportsRation. “He gave us the biggest moment in our club’s history, and now he’s walking away just when the real journey is about to begin.”
Despite having a year left on his two-year deal, Imama has yet to formally communicate his decision to club chairman John Obuh or the board, a move seen by many as unprofessional and destabilising.
Supporters and stakeholders are now calling on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the league organisers to intervene, stressing that Abia Warriors’ progress is not just a state success, but a national asset worth protecting.
What Lies Ahead
With his arrival in Kano imminent and speculation mounting, an official confirmation from Pillars could be just hours away. If the deal goes through, it would be a major coaching shake-up in the Nigerian league—and could leave Abia Warriors scrambling for leadership weeks before the most important campaign in the club’s history.
SportsRation will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as they become available.
