Daniel Ogunmodede, the newly appointed Technical Adviser of Kano Pillars, has immediately established a clear direction for the former Nigeria Premier Football League champions, emphasizing that winning every competition will be the cornerstone of his ambitious project at the club.
Official Unveiling and Immediate Goals
Popularly known as IJABALL, the Super Eagles assistant coach outlined his expansive vision during his official unveiling at the Kano Pillars Secretariat on Saturday. He promised not only immediate on-pitch success but also the creation of a sustainable football structure capable of producing future stars.
Addressing journalists, Ogunmodede made it clear that the club’s renewed ambition extends beyond attractive football. “We are not just going to play football; we want to win. No doubt about it. We can’t win all games, but we will win every game as it comes,” he stated.
Long-Term Vision: World-Class Academy
The former Remo Stars boss detailed his long-term vision, which includes building a world-class youth development system that will become one of Nigeria’s finest talent factories. “Secondly, the goal is to organise and structure a world-standard academy, ranging from Under-12 to Under-19. Thereby, we will create and maintain a solid identity that will be recognisable in the country and around the world,” Ogunmodede explained.
Winning Non-Negotiable in All Competitions
Beyond player development, Ogunmodede insisted that success remains non-negotiable. He revealed that Kano Pillars will approach every competition with the mentality of genuine title contenders. “And lastly, like I said, to win. Winning is not negotiable in this project. We want to win. I can promise you we are going to contest the Federation Cup, the league, the CAF Confederation Cup, and the Champions League. We are going to compete in all competitions. In doing this, our communication skills must be strong,” he said.
Open-Door Policy and Collaborative Approach
The 46-year-old coach also pledged to foster an atmosphere of openness and collaboration, stressing that every stakeholder with ideas to improve the club would have a voice. “No one is an island of knowledge. I’m not unapproachable. I love to be advised. I love to be talked to. I hate autocracy. I love deliberations. If you have an idea that can help Kano Pillars, and if you can’t talk to the Chairman, you can talk to me,” Ogunmodede emphasized.
Restoring Glory to Kano Pillars
Kano Pillars have entrusted Ogunmodede with the task of returning one of Nigeria’s most decorated clubs to the pinnacle of domestic football after several challenging campaigns. The Sai Masu Gida last lifted the NPFL title in 2014, completing a remarkable run that also saw them crowned champions in the 2007/08, 2012, and 2013 seasons. His appointment signals the beginning of a fresh chapter for the Kano-based giants. With a reputation for building competitive teams and delivering sustained success, the club’s hierarchy hopes Ogunmodede can restore Kano Pillars as genuine contenders for domestic silverware while laying the foundation for long-term success both on and off the pitch.
