Kwara United have relieved Tunde Sanni of his duties after an underwhelming sequence of three losses in four matches, the latest being a 0-1 home defeat to Abia Warriors on Matchday 7 of the NPFL.
Despite guiding the club to their first-ever President’s Federation Cup title, Sanni’s recent form failed to convince the board. Two of the recent defeats came in back-to-back matches against Asante Kotoko in the CAF Confederation Cup.
In his place, Ashifat Suleiman (often referred to as "Brazil") has been appointed interim head coach with immediate effect. Suleiman, who previously served as assistant, will lead the team into their next match against Kano Pillars on Matchday 8.
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At the time of Sanni’s departure, Kwara United sat 10th on the NPFL table with 8 points.
Editorial
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We believe Kwara United’s decision reflects a critical juncture in football where patience is tested against performance. By winning the President’s Federation Cup, Sanni earned credibility; yet, as league and continental obligations piled up, results in NPFL and CAF seemed to slip away. In clubs aiming for consistency across multiple fronts, recent form often carries more weight than past glory.
Ashifat Suleiman’s promotion signals faith in internal options and continuity. An assistant stepping up allows smoother transitions than bringing in an external replacement mid-season. It’s a gamble, especially for a team under pressure, but one that could galvanise the squad. Suleiman’s in tactical adjustments, player morale, and match outcomes will now be under close watch.
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Kwara United’s next fixture against Kano Pillars will be especially telling. Not only must results improve, but the style of play, defensive solidity, and attacking intent must show visible change. A coach’s impact is measured not just by what was, but by what is possible from now.
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We expect that Suleiman must immediately assert authority, bring clarity in roles, and inspire belief. If he leverages his existing relationships, knowledge of squad strengths and weaknesses, the team could stabilise and possibly recover their season. At this moment, choice of leadership is as important as talent on the pitch.
Did You Know?
Tunde Sanni was the first managerial casualty in the 2025/26 NPFL season following Kwara United’s string of poor results.
Two of Kwara United’s recent defeats were suffered against Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Ashifat Suleiman previously served as Sanni’s assistant before being appointed acting head coach.
The trigger for Sanni’s dismissal was a home loss to Abia Warriors.
At the time of change, Kwara United were 10th in the league standings with 8 points from 7 matches.