The late Ismaila Mabo, former coach of the Super Falcons, is widely regarded as a giant in the world of Nigerian football.
Mabo passed away in the early hours of Monday, March 13, 2023, in Jos, Plateau State, at the age of 80.
His remarkable career began as a schoolboy international for the Nigeria Academicals, a team that broke the long-standing dominance of Ghana in academy football. On February 13, 1966, Mabo’s Nigerian team achieved a historic victory, defeating Ghana’s Academicals 1-0 in Accra. This marked the first time any Nigerian team had triumphed over a Ghanaian football team on Ghanaian soil. Mabo went ahead to play for Nigeria senoir National team in 1969.
Mabo was also one of the founding fathers and the first captain of Mighty Jets FC during the 1969/70 season. As a player, he led the Mighty Jets team to victory, securing Nigeria's first-ever league title in the 1972/73 season.
As the most successful coach of Nigeria's female national team, the Super Falcons, Mabo's impact on Nigerian football extended beyond his playing days. His legacy as a coach is defined by his leadership and guidance, which shaped the success of the Super Falcons.
Ismaila Mabo lived an impactful life, and a special place will forever be reserved for him in the history of Nigerian football development.
Gone but still fresh in our mind.
Continue to rest in peace, the Legendary Ismaila Mabo
AKM Sports, Lagos
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