Abia Warriors target NPFL 2026/27 continental return after lessons

Abia Warriors finished sixth in the 2026 Nigeria Professional Football League with 55 points from 38 matches, and Sporting Director Emeka Ifejiagwa says the club is targeting a return to continental football in the new campaign. Their record was 16 wins, seven draws and 15 defeats, with 31 goals scored and 34 conceded.

The club’s push for a top-three finish faded late in the season after injuries and a downturn in form. Abia Warriors lost their final five matches in a run that included defeats by Warri Wolves, Kun Khalifat FC, Rivers United and Bendel Insurance, with a 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City the only win in that sequence.

Ifejiagwa believes those problems have provided lessons for the next campaign. Several players from last season’s squad have departed, while the club has brought in younger players to add energy, pace and skill alongside its more experienced members.

The sporting director also pointed to the experience within Abia Warriors’ technical structure. Management Committee Chairman John Obuh, head coach Imama Amapakabo, goalkeeper coach Ike Shorunmu, Bethel Orji and Ifejiagwa form part of the club’s leadership and coaching setup.

Abia Warriors will begin the 2026/27 NPFL season against Kun Khalifat FC on 30 August 2026 at Enyimba Stadium in Aba, their adopted home venue. The same fixture was part of the club’s late-season difficulties, when a victory would have helped their effort to reach their target.

Ifejiagwa said the team has completed pre-season work in Ikenne and continued its preparations in Aba. He is also calling for VAR to be introduced in the Nigerian top flight, arguing that stronger officiating standards would improve the competition. The club will play its home matches at Enyimba Stadium and is seeking continued backing from Abia State and its supporters as it attempts to reclaim a place in African inter-club competition.