Plateau United have officially confirmed the appointment of Gbenga Ogunbote as their new acting technical adviser, alongside the naming of Dr Alhassan Yakmut as acting chairman, as the club moves to steady the ship ahead of the second stanza of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League season.
The Jos-based club announced the changes in a statement, confirming that Ogunbote resumed duties on Tuesday at the New Jos Stadium. The experienced coach takes over technical responsibilities until the end of the current campaign, following a difficult first half of the season that left Plateau United battling near the foot of the table.
Ogunbote, who has previously handled Shooting Stars, Enyimba, Rangers International, Sunshine Stars and Lobi Stars, returns to the NPFL with a mandate to revive the club’s fortunes. His appointment comes after growing dissatisfaction with results under Shola Ayegun, although the club has yet to clearly state whether Ayegun will remain as part of the technical crew or if he has been completely relieved of his duties. There are also indications that Ogunbote may arrive with two assistants as he reshapes the backroom staff.
Results under Ayegun failed to meet expectations, and supporter frustration became evident during Plateau United’s 1–0 home defeat to Abia Warriors last weekend, when fans displayed placards protesting the team’s poor run of form. After 19 league matches, Plateau United sit 19th on the NPFL table with 19 points from six wins, one draw and 12 defeats.
In the same statement, the club confirmed the appointment of Dr Alhassan Yakmut as acting chairman, following approval by the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang. Yakmut is described as a seasoned sports administrator whose experience is expected to strengthen the club’s leadership and strategic direction through the remainder of the season.
The club stated, “Plateau United Football Club hereby announces the appointment of Dr. Alhassan Yakmut as the acting Chairman of Plateau United FC by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang to the end of the current season. Dr. Yakmut is a seasoned sports administrator with extensive experience and will contribute to the club’s strategic and administrative direction.
“In the same vein, the club also confirms the appointment of Coach Gbenga Ogunbote as the acting Technical Adviser, effective immediately until the end of the current season. Coach Ogunbote has previously managed Sunshine Stars FC, Lobi Stars FC, and Shooting Stars FC, and will be responsible for technical matters and team performance.”
“These appointments form part of Plateau United’s resolve to strengthen its Management and Technical structure in line with the Club’s objectives for the season.”
“The club wishes to thank and appreciate all its supporters, partners, and stakeholders for the complete support during the first stanza of the league despite all the challenges faced. We shall further crave more support as we are poised for the second stanza.”
“Your full support shall be immense to the new leadership, technical crew and galvanise the team as we work collectively towards our set goals.”
With the second half of the season approaching, Plateau United will hope the changes bring renewed momentum as they fight to climb away from the relegation zone and restore confidence among their supporters.
