Nasarawa United are the surprise package of the current Nigeria Premier Football League campaign. Few predicted that a modest, workmanlike side would sit fourth on the table at this stage, yet the Solid Miners have earned their place through organisation, intensity and collective belief.
The foundation of their run is a strong defence and a team-first mentality. Head coach has alternated between a 4-4-2 and a 4-3-3, choosing pragmatism over flair. That flexibility has served the Lafia-based club well.
In goal, veterans Godwin Ameh and Onu Chinemerem Olughu have shared the number one shirt. Both have delivered assured performances, keeping standards high despite rotation.
The back four has been outstanding. Left-back Mubarak Hussaini has made notable strides over the past year and is fast becoming one to watch. On the opposite flank, Abubakar Abdullahi continues to define loyalty, now in at least his 12th consecutive season at the club and a genuine legend in Lafia. Centre-backs Victor Ekioke John, formerly of Warri Wolves and Lobi Stars, and Emmanuel Utaka have provided solidity, with Utaka remaining an effective if low-profile presence.
In midfield, Joshua John has been pivotal. The former Nigeria Under-20 player has excelled as a deep-lying playmaker, setting tempo and screening the defence. He has partnered either Chidera Nduka or newcomer Jofrank Gombiman Istifanus, both youthful and energetic options. Mohammed Garba often operates from the left, while Ekeson Okorie attacks from the right, offering direct running and unpredictability that troubles opposing full-backs.
Lawal Abayomi and Nwakaji Solomon Chigozie add depth and versatility across midfield, giving the side balance when rotations are required.
Up front, Yusuf Anas is the headline act. Whether deployed on the left or through the middle, he brings pace, power and a ruthless edge. Anas has already scored six league goals this season after finishing last term with 18. When used as a striker, he is commonly paired with the physical Ibrahim “Ada” Umar, with Collins Onovughe and Leonard Aputazie Ugochukwu providing cover.
Top scorers underline Nasarawa United’s spread of threat. Anas leads with six goals, followed by Garba on three and Joshua John on two. It is a collective effort, built on discipline and belief, that has turned the Solid Miners into one of the league’s most compelling stories.
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