Kano Pillars have confirmed the exit of eight players whose contracts have run their course, as the four-time Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions begin a significant overhaul ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The club named Bernard Ovoke, Christian Izuchukwu, Sudais Ali Baba, Aliyu Yakubu, Muhammad Galadima, Ugochukwu Gabriel, Zahraddeen Bello, and Williams Ayuba as the departing players. In an official statement, the Sai Masu Gida thanked each of them for their dedication, professionalism, and service to the club.

A season of survival

The 2024/25 NPFL campaign was a difficult one for Kano Pillars, who were forced to battle relegation deep into the season before securing their top-flight status on the final day. The club also failed to make any meaningful progress in the President Federation Cup.

Despite the turbulence, head coach Mohammed Babaganaru is expected to keep his post heading into the new campaign — a reward for steering the club to safety when the stakes were highest.

Rebuilding in progress

With a major restructuring now underway, Kano Pillars are aiming to return stronger in the 2026/27 season. The departures mark the beginning of what the club hopes will be a comprehensive squad renewal.