Plateau United have confirmed that forward Albert Hilary will wear the captain’s armband for the 2025/26 season, with Samuel Kalu, Harrison Ebah and Victor Dawa serving as his deputies.
Hilary, who joined the Peace Boys from GBS Academy in 2020, has grown into one of the club’s most influential players. In 50 league appearances, he has scored 20 goals, including a standout campaign in the 2023/24 season where he found the net 12 times in 24 matches. His memorable hat-trick in the 5–1 victory over Bayelsa United December 2023 remains one of the highlights of Plateau United’s season.
The decision to hand him the armband was one driven as much by the dressing room as by the coaching staff. “The players wanted someone they could believe in and trust,” coach Oluwasola Adegun explained. “They see how Hilary brings them together, how he communicates, and of course, being a son of the soil who understands what this club means, he embodies Plateau United. That’s why they’ve trusted him with this responsibility.”
Beyond Hilary, Adegun has also identified a leadership group designed to guide the squad through the challenges of the campaign. “We want cultural architects ~ players with work ethic, charisma, and influence. It’s about setting standards, driving training sessions, and making sure the team keeps the right culture. Hilary will lead it, but he won’t be alone.”
Hilary’s passionate style on the pitch is part of what convinced the staff he was ready to take on the role. “His aggression and energy transmit positively to the group,” the coach said. “He sets the tempo with the way he plays, and that can rub off on others. Of course, leadership is also about balance, and we’re confident he’ll know when to combine that passion with tact and composure.”
For Hilary himself, the moment carried a deep sense of pride. “It’s a huge honour to be captain of this team,” he said. “I know it comes with responsibility, but my goal is to unite the players and lead us to do the right things at the right time. It’s a work in progress, but we’ll build it step by step.”
He also spoke about his vision for the season ahead. “If we can work together as one, we can achieve great things. I’m working hard to make sure the group stays united so we can reach our goals.”
For the fans, Hilary’s appointment carries extra weight. A Jos-born player who rose through the local GBS Academy before making his name in the green and yellow, he represents more than just ability on the pitch. His story is one of homegrown pride- a reminder of Plateau United’s roots, and of the talent that continues to come from the state. Hilary now becomes the face of Plateau United’s new leadership, stepping into the role at a time when expectations are high and ambition is clear. With the support of Kalu, Ebah and Dawa, he carries the responsibility of setting the standard for a squad determined to fight for honours this season.