President Federation Cup-winning coach Kabiru Dogo has disclosed that El Kanemi Warriors wanted him to remain at the club despite their relegation to the Nigeria National League (NNL).
Dogo made the revelation during a Hard Talk session organised by the Kwara State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) at the Taiwo Awoniyi Media Centre, SWAN Secretariat, Ilorin, on Friday.
According to him, the club’s management and stakeholders retained confidence in his ability despite the team’s drop from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
He attributed the club’s relegation to several factors, including logistics challenges, long-distance travel, and the departure of key players during the season.
“Logistics challenges and travelling three days within a week sometimes contributed to the relegation of the club,” Dogo said.
“The exodus of players also affected the team.”
Despite the setbacks, Dogo guided the Maiduguri-based club to their fourth President Federation Cup title after taking charge in 2025, further strengthening El Kanemi Warriors’ place in Nigerian football history.
The experienced tactician maintained that winning the President Federation Cup is more difficult than winning the league title, adding that the club’s relegation was part of God’s plan.
Dogo also expressed appreciation to the club’s management, staff, stakeholders, fans and supporters for their unwavering support throughout his time with the team.
Speaking on his move to Niger Tornadoes, Dogo clarified that his contract with El Kanemi Warriors had expired before he agreed to join the Minna-based club.
Having completed his spell with El Kanemi Warriors, Dogo is now set to lead Niger Tornadoes into the 2026/27 season.
