Akwa United head coach Paul Offor has issued a stern rallying cry to his squad, demanding absolute concentration as the Nigeria National League (NNL) enters its decisive final phase. Speaking shortly after the team’s final tactical session in Uyo on Friday, March 6, 2026, the young strategist emphasized that “The Promise Keepers” must treat every remaining fixture with the gravity of a championship decider. The league leaders are currently in Osun State, preparing for a high-stakes Matchday 13 encounter against Osun United, scheduled for Saturday afternoon at the Lanreleke Township Stadium in Ile-Ogbo.
With only six matches left in the 2025/26 campaign, Akwa United sits four points clear at the summit of Conference B. Despite their comfortable cushion over rivals Sporting Lagos, Offor is determined to guard against any drop in standards. The coach noted that while the team’s recent 2-0 victory over First Bank FC showcased their potential, the ultimate objective of securing a swift return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) requires a level of consistency they have yet to fully master.
“The remaining six matches are very crucial for us and we cannot afford to be complacent, We must remain focused and ensure we make the most of our chances,” Offor told the club’s media. “We are not yet where we want to be, and we have to sustain our current momentum by showing consistency in our performance.”
The technical crew has spent the week refining the team’s finishing, aware that wasted opportunities could prove fatal in the promotion race. Offor, who recently bolstered his profile by obtaining a UEFA B coaching license, has instilled a “winning mentality” that prioritizes collective effort over individual brilliance. He warned his players that at this juncture of the season, tactical discipline and mental fortitude are just as important as physical fitness.
“We have reached a stage in our campaign where we must approach every match like a cup final. We cannot gamble with our chances. We must be fully prepared to fight and win together because our objective is to finish the season strongly.”
Saturday’s clash in Osun represents a significant hurdle, as the hosts are coming off a morale-boosting away win and will be eager to halt the leaders’ march. For Akwa United, a victory would not only extend their lead but also reinforce the mandate given by the state government to reclaim their status among the nation’s elite. As the “Promise Keepers” step onto the pitch in Ilesa, the message from the dugout is clear: there is no room for error in the pursuit of the top flight.
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