Festus Allen Returns to ABS Ilorin, Targets NPFL Promotion
Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Ilorin FC have appointed experienced tactician Festus Allen as the club’s new Technical Adviser, with the coach setting his sights on securing promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Allen signed a one-year contract with an option for extension and was officially unveiled on Wednesday at the Taiwo Awoniyi Media Centre, George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.
The appointment marks an emotional return for Allen, who previously played a key role during one of the most successful periods in ABS Ilorin’s history.
Speaking at his unveiling, Allen stated that his immediate objective is to guide the club back to the top flight, while emphasising that achieving the goal will require a collective effort from management, players, supporters, and other stakeholders.
“The ultimate goal is the Premier League, but it cannot be achieved by one person. It requires a collective effort. From the fans to the management, everyone must be fully committed to the objective.”
Allen added: “We must come together as one to work towards this. As I said, the ultimate target is the Premier League.”
The coach is no stranger to ABS Ilorin, having previously served as part of Patrick Awaja’s technical crew that led the club to the summit of the Nigeria National League (NNL) and secured its historic first promotion to the Nigerian Premier League.
Following Awaja’s departure, Allen later assumed interim responsibility for the team, further strengthening his long-standing relationship with the club.
His return reunites ABS Ilorin with a coach who is well acquainted with the club’s history, philosophy, and commitment to youth development.
Speaking on the appointment, the club’s Director of Football, Chief Alloy Chukwuemeka, described Allen as an experienced and familiar figure whose return is a positive development for the team.
Chukwuemeka reaffirmed the club’s commitment to youth development while maintaining competitiveness at the highest level. He noted that over 253 players have progressed through the ABS FC structure to feature for clubs within and outside Nigeria.
He also called on football stakeholders, supporters, and partners across the Kwara football community to rally behind the club in its bid to return to the NPFL.
The club expressed appreciation to its proprietor, His Excellency Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, for his continued commitment to the growth and sustainability of ABS Ilorin FC.
For several years, Saraki has supported the club as a platform for nurturing young football talent in Kwara State and providing players with pathways to professional careers.
ABS Ilorin FC will begin preparations for the 2026/27 season, with players expected to resume on August 28, while full training is scheduled to commence on August 31.
With Allen back at the helm, ABS Ilorin will be aiming to translate its ambition into reality and secure a return to Nigeria’s top-flight league.
