Kano Pillars appoint former Remo Stars boss Daniel Ogunmodede as new technical adviser

Kano Pillars have named highly rated coach Daniel Ogunmodede as their new technical adviser, tasking him with leading the four-time Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions into the 2026-27 campaign.

The 46-year-old was formally presented on Saturday at the club’s secretariat in Kano by chairman Ahmad Musbahu Garo, following the departure of former handler Mohammed Babaganaru, who steered the team away from relegation last season.

Pillars, nicknamed Sai Masu Gida, announced the appointment on X and hailed Ogunmodede’s record and ambition as they begin preparations for a new era.

“A proven tactician with a winning mentality, Ogunmodede now takes charge of the Sai Masu Gida as we embark on an exciting journey towards success in the 2026/2027 season. Welcome to the home of football. Welcome to the family,” the club posted.

Ogunmodede handed mandate to restore glory

Kano Pillars, one of the most storied clubs in Nigerian football, have moved swiftly to install a long-term project by bringing in Ogunmodede, also known as “Ijaball”, shortly after beginning pre-season training on Monday.

The club emphasised the significance of the appointment when confirming his unveiling.

“We are delighted to officially unveil Mr. Daniel Ogunmodede (Ijaball) as our new Technical Adviser at the club’s secretariat in the presence of our Chairman, Alhaji Ahmad Musbahu Garo,” the Pillars statement on X read.

Ogunmodede will be expected to rebuild a side that has experienced fluctuating fortunes in recent years, including a battle for top-flight survival last season. His arrival is seen as an attempt to blend youth and experience, as Pillars look to compete again at the top end of the NPFL and push for silverware.

Emotional farewell to Remo Stars

Before taking up his new role in Kano, Ogunmodede addressed supporters of his former club Remo Stars in a heartfelt parting message, reflecting on their shared achievements and the bond he formed there.

“What started as an opportunity became a family, a purpose, and one of the defining chapters of my life,” Ogunmodede wrote.

“Together, we built, we believed, we struggled, we learned, and ultimately, we made history.

“That moment will forever remain one of the proudest memories of my career, not because of the trophy alone, but because of everything it represented.

“It was the reward for years of sacrifice, resilience, faith, and hard work.

“As I leave, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and without regret. I leave knowing I gave everything I had every single day in service of this badge and this project.

“May the club continue to grow from strength to strength, produce more champions, inspire future generations, and achieve even greater heights in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond.”

His words underline the depth of his connection with Remo Stars, where he helped shape one of the NPFL’s more progressive projects in recent seasons.

New chapter in Kano

Ogunmodede now turns his focus fully to Kano, where expectations are traditionally high and the fan base among the most passionate in Nigerian football.

With pre-season already under way, the new technical adviser faces the immediate task of assessing the current squad, shaping recruitment, and imposing his tactical philosophy ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Kano Pillars’ hierarchy are banking on his “winning mentality” and reputation for building competitive teams to revive the club’s challenge for domestic honours and re-establish them as a dominant force in Nigerian football.