Kano Pillars are closing in on the appointment of Salisu Yusuf as their new head coach, with the experienced tactician expected to take charge ahead of the 2026-27 NPFL campaign.
Yusuf is no stranger to the Sai Masu Gida setup. He previously held the technical adviser role at the club during the 2021-22 season, and this appointment would represent a second stint at the four-time NPFL champions.
The 55-year-old brings fresh momentum into the role after parting ways with Coton Sport of Benin Republic at the end of last season by mutual agreement. At Coton Sport, he delivered a strong finish — guiding them to second place in the Championnat National du Bénin and earning the club a CAF Confederation Cup ticket.
Yusuf also carries notable international pedigree. He led Nigeria's home-based Super Eagles to the silver medal at the 2018 Africa Nations Championship, a record that speaks to his coaching quality.
The timing of this appointment is significant. Kano Pillars had a difficult 2025-26 season and only narrowly avoided relegation, a situation that made it clear the club needed fresh direction going into the new campaign. Towards the end of the season, results were inconsistent — heavy away defeats to Bayelsa United and Ikorodu City, a loss at Plateau United on the final day — and the club will be hoping Yusuf can provide the stability and tactical organisation needed to ensure a much stronger showing next term.
For supporters, the return of a coach who has managed at this level — both domestically and on the continent — should offer genuine confidence that the club is serious about rebuilding properly.