Nasarawa United’s assistant coach, Mohammed Saidu Bashir, expressed relief as his team returned to winning ways in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), securing a crucial 2-0 victory over Akwa United in Lafia on Sunday.

The win, which followed a disappointing defeat to Kwara United the previous week, lifted Salisu Yusuf’s side out of the relegation zone. Bashir hailed the result as a “significant turnaround” for the Solid Miners, praising the squad’s resilience and improved performance.

“This is a great turnaround for us after the disappointing away loss to Kwara United on matchday 31,” he declared after the game.

“Akwa United are a good side. They are former league champions, and we respect them for that. However, we needed the points today more than they did, even though we are passing through the same phase of beating the drop.

“We are so happy that we are back in contention to stabilise in the league, and we hope to continue with this great feat, beginning with our next home game against our next-door neighbours, Plateau United, this coming weekend.”

Nasarawa United welcomed their fans back to the Lafia City Stadium for the first time in five months following the ban by the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

Bashir said the fans’ presence boosted the morale of the players.

“Also, it’s great to see our fans back at the stadium after the ban against them some five months ago. Their presence today was a huge morale booster, and we hope to see more of their support and high spirits in the remaining games,” he added.

“We thank everyone for their support and prayers always.”