"Job Done, Mission Accomplished" – Coach Salisu Hails Nasarawa United After Securing NPFL Survival

Nasarawa United have confirmed their place in next season’s Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after edging nine-time champions Enyimba FC 3-2 in a thrilling matchday 37 encounter at the Pantami Stadium, Gombe.

Shina Kumater opened the scoring for the Solid Miners in the 6th minute, reacting quickest to a rebound to give the hosts the lead. Anas Yusuf doubled the advantage from the penalty spot on the half-hour mark after being fouled by Enyimba's Ekene Awazie—netting his 18th goal of the season.

Enyimba pulled one back almost immediately as Utake Emmanuel turned the ball into his own net in the 33rd minute. The first half ended 2-1 in favour of the Lafia-based side.

Chikamso Okechukwu drew Enyimba level in the 62nd minute with a well-taken penalty, but Nasarawa United responded swiftly. Idris Ajiya, making his return, restored the lead just three minutes later with what proved to be the decisive goal.

The crucial win lifts Nasarawa United to 9th on the log with 52 points, just two behind Enyimba who now sit in 6th place.

In a boost to the team's morale, Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule redeemed a ₦2 million pledge made after the team’s comeback win over Lobi Stars four days earlier. The cheque was presented by the State’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, to Club Chairman Solomon Babanjah ahead of the Enyimba clash.

Nasarawa United will now round off their season in two weeks with a visit to face Rivers United in Port Harcourt.

Post-match reaction:

Coach Salisu Yusuf expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating:

"Wow, this is a great result for us, especially when you play against a big team like Enyimba who were eyeing a continental ticket off us here... For now, the job is done, and mission accomplished, and we thank God for everything."