Lobi Stars head coach Tope Bolus has expressed unwavering confidence that his team will make an immediate return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following their relegation to the Nigeria National League (NNL).

The Pride of Makurdi, who have endured a difficult 2024/2025 campaign, will compete in the second-tier NNL next season after a disappointing run in the top flight.

"We are only playing for everybody to see that we are not a bad team," Bolus told the media after their matchday 37 clash against Plateau United. "It's quite unfortunate that we find ourselves in this type of situation, you can see how we play. We will come back stronger next season."

The coach maintained a positive outlook despite the setback, emphasizing that relegation is not the end of the road for the Makurdi-based club.

"Relegation is not the end of the world, we will go there and come back. Many teams have done the same," he added.

Lobi Stars have recorded a disappointing five wins, 10 draws, and 22 defeats in 37 matches this season, leaving them firmly in the relegation zone with just one match remaining in their campaign.

The team will conclude their NPFL season with a fixture against Bendel Insurance, which will serve as their final top-flight match before dropping to the lower division.

Despite their poor form throughout the season, Bolus remains optimistic about the club's future and is determined to prove that Lobi Stars have the quality to regain their NPFL status at the first attempt.