Abakaliki FC head coach Starplus Izuikem Anistar has confirmed that his team has already begun preparations for the 2026/2027 Nigeria National League (NNL) season, just under two weeks after finishing fourth in Conference B of the 2025/2026 campaign. The club, affectionately known as the ‘Rice Boys’, ended the season with 25 points, a solid performance that has fueled optimism for promotion to the top flight. Anistar emphasized the importance of early planning, stating that “an early start makes for a better ending,” as the team moves swiftly into recruitment and training phases.
Following the conclusion of the regular season, the players were granted a five-day rest before resuming training ahead of the President Federation Cup final. Abakaliki FC will face Cynosure FC in the final on Saturday, 25 April, a match that Anistar sees as part of the broader rebuilding process for next season. The coach stressed that the upcoming fixture is not just about winning a trophy but also about maintaining momentum and assessing player fitness and form.
A key focus of the current preparations is player recruitment. Anistar is leveraging the ongoing Nationwide League One (NLO) play-offs being held in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, to scout and evaluate potential signings. He highlighted that being based in Abakaliki gives him a strategic advantage in identifying local talent and making informed decisions. “As a grassroots-oriented coach, I enjoy working with young players,” he said, adding that he is using the NLO as a platform to discover and sign promising talents for the 2026/2027 season.
Anistar also dismissed the idea of a last-minute, reactive approach to team building. “I do not believe in a ‘fire brigade approach’ to anything,” he stated, underscoring his commitment to structured, long-term planning. With the new season just a few months away, he believes it is crucial to act now to build a competitive squad. He noted that proper recruitment must be completed before the team enters close camping, ensuring that all new signings are fully integrated and prepared.
The coach’s proactive strategy reflects a growing ambition within Abakaliki FC to challenge for promotion. His focus on youth development and strategic recruitment signals a shift towards sustainable growth and long-term success. As the club continues its preparations, fans and stakeholders are hopeful that this early start will translate into a strong campaign and a possible step up to the Nigeria Premier Football League. The 2026/2027 season could mark a turning point for Abakaliki FC under Anistar’s leadership.
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