Abubakar Bukola Saraki Football Club (ABS Ilorin FC) has officially welcomed back it’s former Captain, Abdulrahman Bashir, who has resumed duty as a Trainer with the club.

Bashir was formally introduced to players and management staff by the Director of Football, Chief Alloy Chuwuemeka, today, Wednesday February 4, 2026, after their training session where he was also presented with his Nigeria Institute for Sports (NIS) form as part of his coaching development.

Speaking during the brief ceremony, Chief Alloy Chuwuemeka described Bashir as a model professional whose return was well deserved.

“Bashir used to be one of our best players. He played for Enyimba, Plateau United and Wikki Tourists. While he was here, he was not just a player but also our ambassador. He behaved well, showed loyalty and professionalism, and that is why we decided to bring him back as a Trainer,” Chuwuemeka said.

He further encouraged the players to embrace Bashir’s presence and experience.

“You will learn from him, and he will also learn from you,” he added.

An emotional Abdulrahman Bashir expressed his delight at returning to the club where his football journey began, this time in a new capacity.

“I am very happy to be back at my team, where it all started. Returning as a Coach is something that excites me greatly,” Bashir said.

The former Captain also acknowledged the support of the club’s founder and benefactor, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, for making his coaching aspirations a reality.

“This is something I have always wanted to do, but I didn’t have the capacity. I want to sincerely thank Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki for helping me achieve this dream. Now, I am going to the Nigeria Institute for Sports,” he added.

ABS Ilorin continues to intensify preparation ahead of resumption for the second stanza of the 2025/2026 Nigeria National League (NNL) season.