27/04/2026
27th April, 2026.
APPRECIATION MESSAGE FROM COACH YUSUF SALIHU.
Technical Adviser,
Gombe United Football Club.
I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation and profound gratitude to Almighty God for granting me the grace to witness the completion of a challenging but memorable football season, crowned with victory in the just concluded Federation Cup final won on the 25th April, 2026.
Though the season also ended with the team’s relegation from the Nigeria National League (NNL), I remain grateful for the journey, the lessons learned and the strength shown by everyone connected to the club.
I joined Gombe United in the middle of the 2025/2026 NNL season on a rescue mission with the hope of helping the club retain its league status. While that objective was not achieved, I take pride in the fighting spirit displayed by the team and the historic 2026 Federation Cup triumph that brought joy and honour to our great state.
This remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support, encouragement and commitment of many distinguished individuals and groups.
First and foremost, I sincerely appreciate His Excellency, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, the Executive Governor of Gombe State, for his visionary leadership, continuous support for sports development and fatherly commitment to the growth of football in our dear state. Your investment in youth empowerment and sports excellence remains the foundation of our progress.
I also extend my gratitude to the Secretary to the State Government, members of the State Executive Council, Honourable Commissioners, and all government officials whose support and cooperation contributed immensely throughout the season.
My profound appreciation goes to the General Manager of Gombe United, the management team, and the entire administrative staff for their tireless efforts, effective coordination, and steadfast belief in the team during difficult and successful moments alike.
To the Special Adviser on Special Duties (SA Special Duties) and all sports administrators in the state, I thank you for your guidance, encouragement and dedication to the advancement of sports in Gombe State.
I deeply appreciate the Technical Officials, coaches, medical team, backroom staff and all club officials whose hard work behind the scenes ensured discipline, preparation and unity.
To my gallant Players, you are the true heroes of this story. Even in adversity, you showed resilience, sacrifice, determination and character. Your efforts led to a Federation Cup victory that will forever remain in history.
I also appreciate our respected Stakeholders, partners, sponsors, elders, and friends of the club who stood by the team through every challenge and triumph. Your support means everything.
To our incredible teeming fans and supporters, both home and abroad, your prayers, loyalty, encouragement and passion kept the team going throughout the season. You are the heartbeat of Gombe United.
Finally, to the entire good people and citizens of Gombe State, this victory belongs to you all. Even in a season of mixed emotions, your love and support never wavered. I dedicate this Federation Cup triumph to every son and daughter of Gombe, while assuring you that better days lie ahead for our beloved club.
As I reflect on the season, I remain committed to working harder, rebuilding stronger and striving for greater success in the future.
Thank you all!
May God bless Gombe State and Gombe United Football Club.
Coach Yusuf Salihu
Technical Adviser,
Gombe United FC.
(CAF Licensed Coach,
CAF Coach Educator,
IOC Certified Sports Administrator,
IOC Certified Sports Manager).
