Ahmed Musa has been named the new general manager of Kano Pillars FC, following a significant restructuring at the Nigerian club aimed at reviving its fortunes ahead of the new Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
The announcement was made on Friday by the Kano State government and confirmed by the club. Musa, a former Nigeria international and captain of the Super Eagles, returns to Sai Masu Gida in an executive capacity after featuring for the team during the 2024/25 campaign.
His transition from player to manager marks a pivotal shift as the club looks to restore its status among Nigeria’s football elite.
Kano Pillars, one of the NPFL’s most storied sides with four league titles to their name, endured a challenging campaign last season, finishing ninth in the standings.
The club’s leadership believes that Musa’s appointment will inject new energy and professionalism into the setup, leveraging his vast experience from both domestic and international football.
Musa’s football journey spans over a decade and includes stints in the English Premier League with Leicester City, the Russian Premier League with CSKA Moscow, and the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr, alongside more than 100 appearances for the Nigerian national team. His return in a leadership role is viewed as both symbolic and strategic.
A statement released by the club emphasized that Musa’s appointment reflects a broader ambition to reestablish Kano Pillars as a dominant force in Nigerian football.
“Ahmed Musa’s wealth of experience on the global stage, coupled with his understanding of the club’s culture and the local football landscape, makes him the ideal candidate to lead the team forward,” the statement read.
Ali Muhammad Umar will continue as club chairman, maintaining a sense of stability during the transitional period. The combination of established administrative oversight and fresh leadership from Musa is expected to form the foundation for the club’s future plans.
However, the road ahead is not without its challenges. One of the immediate priorities for the new management is the appointment of a head coach, a position left vacant since Usman Abdallah’s resignation in May.
The absence of a technical head has slowed pre-season preparations, but Musa’s appointment is expected to accelerate the decision-making process.
Club insiders indicate that recruitment and squad development will also be high on the agenda. Kano Pillars will need to strengthen key areas to compete effectively in what promises to be a fiercely contested NPFL season.
The club’s ambitions of climbing back into title contention will depend heavily on the cohesion between the boardroom and the pitch.
For Musa, this new role represents an evolution in his storied football career. While his days on the field may be winding down, his influence on the game in Nigeria continues to grow—this time from the sidelines and the boardroom.
Kano Pillars fans will now watch with anticipation to see how one of their most celebrated players adapts to the demands of football administration, and whether his leadership can usher in a new era of success for the club.
