Shakiru Giwa Steps Down as Inter Lagos Head Coach After Eight NPFL Matches
Inter Lagos head coach Shakiru Giwa has stepped down from his position after eight matches in charge of the club in the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
The Lagos-based club announced Giwa’s departure on Tuesday, October 13, following a disappointing start to its maiden campaign in the top flight.
“Inter Lagos FC announces that Coach Shakiru Giwa has stepped down from his position as Head Coach,” the club stated.
Giwa leaves with a record of one win, two draws and five defeats from eight league matches, a return that has left Inter Lagos struggling at the lower end of the standings.
From promotion success to NPFL struggles
Giwa played a key role in Inter Lagos’ promotion from the Nigeria National League (NNL) to the NPFL, guiding the club into the top division ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Inter Lagos made their top-flight debut against Shooting Stars in Ibadan on August 28, losing 2–1. They subsequently recorded a notable 1–0 away victory over Enyimba in Aba on September 20, with Ezekiel Moses scoring the decisive goal.
However, the club struggled to maintain consistency, suffering further defeats while dropping points in draws against Kano Pillars and Katsina United.
Their difficulties continued with a 3–1 defeat to Warri Wolves on October 11, which preceded the announcement of Giwa’s departure.
Disciplinary sanctions compound challenges
Inter Lagos’ struggles have also been compounded by disciplinary sanctions imposed by the NPFL following incidents surrounding their 1–1 draw against Katsina United on October 4.
The league deducted three points and three goals from the club’s tally and imposed financial penalties totalling ₦5.25 million over security breaches and the reported assault of a match official.
The sanctions further weakened Inter Lagos’ position as they sought to adapt to the demands of top-flight football.
Inter Lagos face crucial rebuilding task
Giwa’s departure leaves Inter Lagos facing an important decision over the direction of their technical department as the season progresses.
The club will need to address its poor run of results and strengthen its position in the league while adjusting to life in the NPFL.
As of Tuesday, October 13, Inter Lagos had not announced a successor to Giwa. It also remained unclear whether the club would appoint a new head coach immediately or undertake a broader restructuring of its technical crew.
For a side that secured promotion under Giwa, the immediate challenge will be to translate that achievement into improved performances and results in the top flight.
