By Aminu Maikaba
Coach Abdu Maikaba has spent several seasons leading Wikki Tourists FC of Bauchi, steering the club through both difficult moments and historic successes. Despite this, his relationship with a section of the fan base has often been marked by contradiction and unfair treatment.
When results do not go Wikki's way, especially after losses or disappointing draws, some fans respond with harsh criticism, insults, and calls for his dismissal, often blaming him alone for poor performances. These reactions, while driven by passion, frequently cross the line into disrespect, ignoring the broader realities of football and collective responsibility. Matches such as the recent draw with Nasarawa United triggered public criticism of his tactics in fan discussions, particularly on social media.
However, when the team wins or performs well, Maikaba rarely receives the same level of vocal praise. Recognition is often directed at players, while the coach's role in planning, structure, and long-term progress is overlooked. This creates a culture where judgment is based only on immediate results rather than sustained development.
Despite this, Coach Maikaba's achievements with Wikki Tourists are undeniable.
-During his first tenure (2014–2016), he guided the club through one of the most successful periods in its history. Under his leadership, Wikki finished 4th in the NPFL in 2014 and 3rd in the 2015/16 season, earning the club CAF Confederation Cup qualification, a rare milestone few coaches have achieved with the team.
- In his second stint, Maikaba was brought back with a clear mission: return Wikki Tourists to the top flight. During the 2024/25 NNL season, he delivered on that mandate by leading the club to dominant performances, topping their conference, qualifying for the Super Eight playoffs, and ultimately securing promotion back to the NPFL for the 2025/26 season.
Beyond trophies and league positions, Maikaba brought stability, structure, and professionalism. Even in defeat, he remained calm, defended his players publicly, and emphasized discipline, resilience, and character, qualities essential for long-term success. He has also played a key role in developing younger and lesser-known players, many of whom grew into regular NPFL-level performers under his guidance.
On a broader level, Maikaba is a highly experienced and respected figure in Nigerian football, with a career that extends beyond Wikki Tourists into other clubs and youth development roles. His tactical intelligence and deep understanding of the game are widely acknowledged, even if often overlooked by fans reacting emotionally to single results.
In reality, Coach Maikaba represents more than wins and losses. His presence, experience, and commitment add value to Wikki Tourists, even when support from the stands and management is inconsistent. He is doing the club a favour by staying committed to its project, whether he is loudly appreciated or not.
Ultimately, Maikaba is not just another coach who passed through Wikki Tourists. He is one of the key architects of the club's greatest modern achievements, from top-league finishes and continental football to restoring Wikki back to the NPFL. His impact has helped shape the identity, resilience, and direction of the club in ways few others have matched.
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Let's be fair in our judgements. Maikaba is trying his best tactically and otherwise.
ReplyDeleteHis biggest problem right now is lack of a standard penalty kicker. We ve not scored any of the last three penalties awarded to us which is a major setback. Some matches would uave been won easily if we have a permanent good kicker. Matches are won from set pieces by alot of teams. I irge Maikaba to work on that