Inter Lagos have named Olusanjo Olutayo as interim head coach after the exit of Shakiru Giwa, with the promoted club aiming to arrest a poor beginning to the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League campaign.
Key takeaways
- Inter Lagos are at the foot of the NPFL standings on two points after eight games.
- The club were punished with deductions of three points and three goals over a Matchday 7 rules breach involving Katsina United.
- Olutayo arrives with coaching experience in Nigeria as well as Finnish youth football.
- His first fixture in charge is set to be against Nasarawa United on October 18 at Mobolaji Johnson Arena.
Disciplinary setback adds to difficult start
The Lagos side’s position at the bottom of the table has been worsened by sanctions imposed following their Matchday 7 meeting with Katsina United on Sunday, October 4, 2026. Inter Lagos lost three points and had three goals deducted after being found to have breached the NPFL framework and regulations.
The club confirmed Olutayo’s arrival on Wednesday through its social-media channels, announcing: “We are pleased to announce Coach Olusanjo Olutayo as our interim Head Coach. Welcome on board!”
Olutayo brings Nigerian and Finnish coaching background
Olutayo has spent significant periods working in Finland’s youth development system between his coaching roles in Nigeria. His previous positions include head coach and head of junior football at Tervarit Juniorit, as well as Under-12 head coach at FC Kontu, among other assignments.
In June 2022, he became Sporting Lagos’ first-team head coach towards the end of the club’s first season. He helped shape the tactical foundations of the newly established side and also served as head coach of its academy during his time there.
Inter Lagos will hope the appointment provides a fresh technical direction as they attempt to improve results and climb from the bottom of the league. Olutayo is due to begin his task when the club host Nasarawa United on Sunday, October 18, at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.
