Nigerian footballers Ahmed Musa and Shehu Abdullahi have made a notable return to their former club, Kano Pillars, by signing short-term contracts for the upcoming 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season. Their rejoining has garnered attention, particularly as both players participated in training with the squad as they prepare for an upcoming match against Sunshine Stars, demonstrating their commitment to helping the team in the league. This marks a significant moment for the club, as both Musa and Abdullahi bring a wealth of experience to the team, and their presence is expected to bolster the club’s performance in the league.
Ahmed Musa, 31, is now embarking on his third spell with Kano Pillars, showcasing his strong ties to the club that he first joined during the 2009/10 season. His earlier tenure was remarkable, highlighted by a season where he became the top scorer with 18 goals. Since then, Musa has enjoyed a successful career across various European leagues, playing for clubs such as VVV Venlo in the Netherlands, CSKA Moscow in Russia, Leicester City in the English Premier League, and Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. His return to Nigeria’s top flight, following a contract termination with Turkish club Sivasspor earlier this year, signals not only his intent to contribute to his former club but also to elevate the standards of the domestic league.
Shehu Abdullahi, on the other hand, is making his second return to Kano Pillars, having previously played for the club in 2012. His position as a defensive midfielder adds depth to the squad, particularly as he has been a free agent since January 2023. The prospect of rejoining Pillars is significant for Abdullahi, as it offers him a platform to showcase his abilities and potentially regain form after a period without competitive football. His experience at both domestic and international levels, including appearances for the Super Eagles, will be invaluable for the younger players in the squad.
Despite the closure of the NPFL 2024/25 summer transfer window, both players are allowed to join the team as free agents. Sunday Obaseki, the head of competitions for the NPFL, confirmed the eligibility of Musa and Abdullahi for registration, alleviating concerns about the restrictions normally imposed during the transfer window. This aspect highlights the flexibility in rules regarding free agents and signifies the league’s commitment to attract and retain talented players, which is crucial for enhancing the overall quality of Nigerian football.
While news of their return to Kano Pillars is met with enthusiasm, it was reported that the reigning NPFL champions, Rangers International, expressed interest in acquiring Ahmed Musa before his official return to Pillars. This interest emphasizes Musa’s stature in Nigerian football and the potential impact he could have on any squad in the league. Nevertheless, his decision to return to Kano Pillars is not only about individual accolades but also about contributing to the club’s legacy and stability in the league.
In conclusion, the re-signing of Ahmed Musa and Shehu Abdullahi by Kano Pillars marks a significant development in the NPFL, bringing experienced national team players back to the fold. Their contributions are likely to enhance the competitiveness of the league while also providing young talents in the team a chance to learn from seasoned professionals. As Pillars prepares for their match against Sunshine Stars, the presence of these two players is a clear indicator of the club’s ambitions for the season ahead, aiming to reclaim its stature among Nigeria’s elite football clubs. Their journey as a team unfolds with the upcoming matches, and fans eagerly await the impact these experienced internationals will have in the league.
