By Daily Sports Nigeria on February 25, 2026

Kano Pillars coach Muhammad Babaganaru has expressed renewed optimism in the former champions’ bid to avoid relegation in the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League following a commanding 3–0 victory over El-Kanemi Warriors on Sunday, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Goals from club legend Rabiu Ali, Luis Dadong and Chiedozie Okorie sealed the win for Pillars at the Sani Abacha Stadium, marking their third consecutive victory.

During this recent resurgence, they also secured a draw against Kwara United, losing just once in their last five matches.

The emphatic home win capped a remarkable turnaround for a side that has endured a turbulent campaign, as they moved out of the relegation zone to 16th place with 32 points from 27 matches.

Kano Pillars’ struggles earlier in the season were compounded by off-field sanctions, including a stadium ban as well as a three-point and three-goal deduction.

Speaking after the win over El-Kanemi, Babaganaru described the performance as close to perfect.

“Maximum three points, three goals and a clean sheet — a very good result,” he said.

“Both teams tried to play good football, but we created more chances and, importantly, we took them.”

The tactician also singled out in-form forward Luis Dadong, who has now scored in three consecutive matches since joining the club.

“He’s very dedicated and understands the game. Scoring in every match gives the team confidence, and I hope he keeps it going,” Babaganaru added.

Babaganaru pointed to recent performances as evidence of growing belief within the squad, citing the display against Kwara United as a turning point.

“I said after that game that if we continued with that intensity and discipline, the results would come,” he noted.

Looking ahead, the Pillars boss stressed the need for consistency as his side prepares for a tough away fixture against Shooting Stars.

“If we can reproduce this level of performance, I’m confident we can get a positive result,” he said.

The victory lifted Kano Pillars to 16th place, keeping their survival hopes firmly alive.

Source Punch Ng

Posted February 25, 2026

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