Abia Comets Football Club has relieved Technical Adviser Dipreye Teibowei of his duties with immediate effect, following a series of unsatisfactory results in the Nigeria National League (NNL).
The Umuahia-based club announced the decision in a statement from its Media Officer, Emmanuel Chinedu. The change comes after the team’s 12th matchday loss to Sunshine Stars in the Southern Conference A during the second phase of the 2025/2026 NNL season. That defeat precipitated the decision, which was taken despite a prior two-match ultimatum issued to Teibowei before the second phase began.
In the statement, the club confirmed that Monday Eguavoen has been appointed to take charge of Abia Comets until the end of the current season. Eguavoen, a former Nigeria international and coach, is tasked with stabilising the team’s campaign.
Notably, the club stated that Teibowei, who was relieved of his technical duties, will continue to receive his salary for the remainder of the season. This move indicates a separation between performance-based dismissal and contractual financial obligations.
The management emphasized that the leadership change is effective immediately, underscoring the urgency with which the club is responding to its recent poor form. The decision highlights the pressure on coaches in the tightly contested National League, where results directly impact club objectives.
Abia Comets’ statement did not specify the exact win-loss record prompting the change, but described the recent results as “disappointing.” The club’s swift action aims to reverse its fortunes in the remaining matches of the conference phase.
With Eguavoen at the helm, Abia Comets will look to salvage their season and improve their standing in the Southern Conference. The appointment of an experienced figure like Eguavoen suggests the club prioritises immediate results and stability over long-term planning for this campaign.
The situation reflects a common trend in Nigerian football management, where clubs frequently make mid-season technical changes to avert relegation threats or push for promotion. For Abia Comets, the focus now shifts to their upcoming fixtures under new leadership, with the clear objective of achieving a more favourable outcome in the Nigeria National League.
