Lobi Stars Football Club has appointed former Super Eagles legend Daniel “The Bull” Amokachi as their new Technical Adviser, following the dismissal of Coach Eugene Abagbe.
The Makurdi-based side announced this decision on Sunday, October 5, 2024, as part of a move to revitalize the team’s strategy and improve their performance in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The club’s board cited Abagbe’s failure to meet their five-match win target as the main reason for his dismissal. Under his leadership, Lobi Stars managed only one victory while suffering three losses, leaving them in 17th place in the 20-team NPFL. The club has struggled to find form this season, and the board saw the need for immediate change.
Amokachi, a 51-year-old former Nigeria international, joins the growing ranks of ex-Super Eagles stars now managing in the NPFL, alongside Finidi George and Emmanuel Amuneke. He was spotted in the stands during Lobi Stars’ 1-0 victory over Shooting Stars last Saturday at the Lafia City Stadium, sparking speculation about his impending appointment.
Nicknamed “The Bull” for his physical and aggressive playing style, Amokachi brings a wealth of experience both as a player and coach. He was part of Nigeria’s iconic 1994 Africa Cup of Nations-winning squad and represented the country in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. His coaching résumé includes stints with NPFL clubs Nasarawa United, Enyimba, and the now-defunct FC Ifeanyi Ubah, as well as roles with Nigeria’s U23 and senior national teams.
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In an official statement, Lobi Stars confirmed the appointment of Amokachi, stating, “The Board has appointed former Super Eagles coach Daniel Amokachi as the new Technical Adviser. His appointment takes immediate effect as we aim to revitalize our strategy and improve performance on the pitch.”
The club also announced a complete overhaul of the backroom staff, with all personnel being relieved of their duties and instructed to reapply if they wish to continue with the team.
Amokachi’s arrival is seen as a crucial step in Lobi Stars’ efforts to salvage their NPFL season. With just one win from their first five matches, the club will be looking to Amokachi’s leadership to steer them out of the relegation zone and back to winning ways. His immediate task will be to improve the team’s morale and implement tactical changes ahead of the upcoming fixtures.
Amokachi now joins fellow USA ’94 teammates Finidi George (Rivers United) and Emmanuel Amuneke (Kano Pillars) as part of a new generation of NPFL coaches hoping to make an impact in Nigerian football.
