Giwa FC have lost another of their gems as left-back El-Shittu Lawal has joined Wikki Tourists for the rest of the season.
Following the departure of Chris Madaki and Amos Gyang to Kano Pillars, Lawal has followed the footsteps of his captain Charles Henlong by signing the dotted lines for the Bauchi-based side.
Lawal told supersport.com that he rejected a couple of offers to sign for Wikki Tourists because he wants to win the league and also wants to be near Jos where he considers home.
“No one was happy when Giwa FC was suspended from the league but life has to move on. The sporting life of a footballer is very short so one has to make decisions to better the future,” Lawal said.
“I had a few offers from clubs in the Nigeria Professional Football League but Wikki was always going to be my first choice. I was in the stands to watch their last game against Plateau United in Jos.
“Rivers United wanted me but I had to consider a few factors before deciding what to do.”
When prompted to reveal why he chose the league leaders, Lawal said his love for coach Abdu Maikaba was one of the reasons he decided to pitch tent with Wikki Tourists.
“I love coach Abdu Maikaba, he is like a mentor and father to me and when I was contacted I couldn’t say no to him,” the youngster revealed.
“Besides that I wanted to be near home (Jos) and I was also motivated to join Wikki because they are doing quite well and my plan is to contribute my own quota to make sure we will the league or at least grab a continental ticket.”
Wikki Tourists are top of the NPFL log with 41 points from 23 games.