Niger Tornadoes captain Anyi Okoye has urged his teammates to raise their performance as the Minna-based club battles to reverse its poor start to the Nigeria Premier Football League season.
The Ikon Allah Boys have failed to win their last five league matches. They have lost three of those games and drawn the other two.
The poor run has left Niger Tornadoes in 17th position on the NPFL table.
Coach Kabiru Dogo’s side now faces increasing pressure to produce better results and move away from the relegation zone.
Okoye said the players must respond quickly to their difficult position. He also reminded his teammates of the effort it took to return to Nigeria’s top flight.
“I know how we laboured to achieve promotion back to the top flight, and no one will wish to experience such feelings again,” Okoye told the club’s media.
The defender said the players must work together to change the team’s fortunes.
“Hence, the need for all of us to put heads together and rise to the occasion,” he added.
Okoye also highlighted the commitment of the club’s supporters. He said the players must give fans something to celebrate after they spend their money to watch the team.
The message comes as Niger Tornadoes prepare for another important league fixture.
The Minna club will host Kun Khalifat FC at the Bako Kontagora Stadium on Sunday.
The match gives the home side an opportunity to respond on the pitch after a difficult run of results.
However, the task will require more than words from the players. They must turn their determination into a strong performance and, most importantly, secure points.
With the club sitting 17th, every result could prove important in its effort to remain in the top division.
For Niger Tornadoes, the immediate target is clear: end the winless run, climb the table and restore confidence among the players and supporters.
The club’s next match against Kun Khalifat FC will therefore be closely watched as the Ikon Allah Boys attempt to change their fortunes.
