Sakaja challenges Nairobi United to chase title glory after awarding top performers

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has challenged Nairobi United to aim higher next season after the newly promoted side celebrated a successful campaign during their end-of-season awards gala held in Nairobi on Thursday, 28 May.

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The colorful event saw the club honor outstanding performers from a season that marked United's maiden appearance in the Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL).

Midfielder Enock Machaka emerged as the biggest winner of the night after being named the club's Most Valuable Player (MVP). He also scooped the Players' Player of the Season award, walking away with a combined cash reward of KSh 800,000.

Kevin Wangaya, who joined the club midway through the season, was named Signing of the Season after making an immediate impact.

The former Kariobangi Sharks midfielder also won the Fans' Player of the Season accolade, earning a combined reward of KSh 500,000.

Youngster Kepha Aswani was recognized as Nairobi United's Most Disciplined Player for his professionalism, consistency, and conduct throughout the campaign, receiving KSh 180,000.

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Ugandan defender Mustafa Kizza's spectacular strike against Shabana was voted Goal of the Season, earning him Ksh 154,000, while Michael Karamor picked up the Forward of the Season award.

Brian Mzee was named Midfielder of the Season, Kevin Otiende took home the Defender of the Season accolade, and Bernard Jairo was recognized as Goalkeeper of the Season.

Lesley Otieno was voted the club's Most Improved Player, while Duncan Omalla received the Young Player of the Season award.

Away from the pitch, Mozzart Sport journalist Kevin Teya was honored for his contribution to Kenyan football coverage and storytelling.

Sakaja, who is also the club's owner, attended the gala and used the occasion to challenge the players and technical bench to set their sights on winning the league title next season.

Despite praising the team's impressive debut season in the top flight, the governor insisted that finishing fifth was not enough for a club with Nairobi United's ambitions.

Drawing from his political journey, the sports investor told the players that success is measured by winning and urged them to adopt the same mentality as they prepare for the 2026/27 campaign.

“I don't take second place, third, or fourth. As a politician, you either win or you don't. So I am not happy with number five. I am not happy. Go out there next season and bring me the title,” said the former senator.

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The former AFC Leopards patron also pledged continued investment in the club, assuring the players that he would provide the necessary support to help them compete at the highest level.

“I am going to do everything possible to make you players comfortable and in a stable environment so that you can deliver results. You have all the support from me,” he added.

The season marked Nairobi United's first-ever campaign in the FKF Premier League after securing promotion from the National Super League (NSL) last year.

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In addition to their league exploits, the Naibois also enjoyed a memorable run in the CAF Confederation Cup, reaching the group stage at the first attempt.

They currently sit fifth on the FKF Premier League table with 50 points and will wrap up their season on Sunday with a glamour fixture against newly crowned champions Gor Mahia at Nyayo National Stadium.