Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has appointed former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa as the new General Manager (GM) of Kano Pillars Football Club following the reconstitution of the club’s management board.
The development comes as part of the government’s renewed efforts to reposition the iconic club ahead of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
A statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Tofa, on Friday, said the decision followed a series of consultations with critical stakeholders in the football community, after the expiration of the outgoing board’s one-year tenure.
The previous board had successfully guided Kano Pillars to a respectable 9th-place finish in the just-concluded NPFL season.
Following its performance, most members of the board were reappointed, with strategic additions to inject fresh energy and boost the club’s competitiveness.
The newly reconstituted 17-member management board includes Ali Umar (Nayara) as Chairman, and Salisu Kosawa, Yusuf Danladi (Andy Cole), Idris Garu, Nasiru Bello, and Muhammad Ibrahim (Hassan West) as members.
Other members include Hamza Chara, Muhammad Gwarzo, Mustapha Darma, Umar Dankura, Ahmad Musbahu, Gambo Kura, Rabiu Abdullahi, Aminu Ma’alesh and Safiyanu Abdu.
Abubakar Yamalash has been returned as Media Director I, whilst Ismail Tangalash maintained his position as Media Director II.
In a major strategic move, the board proposed and secured the appointment of Musa — a global football icon and former Kano Pillars star — as the club’s General Manager.
The appointment of Musa, who has had an illustrious international career spanning top leagues and national duties with the Super Eagles, is expected to bring renewed vision, professionalism, and global attention to the club.
Governor Yusuf, through his spokesperson, expressed confidence in the new leadership structure, saying the reconstituted board is well-positioned to consolidate on past gains and steer the club towards greater success in the new season.
‘The inclusion of Ahmed Musa reflects our desire to blend administrative competence with football experience. We believe his presence will inspire players, attract investment, and rekindle supporters’ enthusiasm’, the statement read.
Kano Pillars FC, one of Nigeria’s most decorated football clubs, is expected to undergo major transformations both on and off the pitch under the new management.
The appointment represents a homecoming for Musa, who began his professional career with Kano Pillars before moving to Europe, where he played for clubs including Leicester City, CSKA Moscow, and Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
The 32-year-old forward made 100 appearances for the Super Eagles, scoring 16 goals and representing Nigeria in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and FIFA World Cups.
His vast experience in top-level football administration and player management is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the club’s operations as they seek to return to continental competition.
