Wikki Tourists have acquired 11 new players to bolster their squad in a bid to retain their Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) status, just before the January transfer window closed on Sunday.

The players are experienced Tchato Giscard, Mohammed Hussaini (from Heartland), Onaolapo Olayinka (Enyimba), Freedom Omofoman, Nzekwesi Arinze (from Lobi Stars) and Madu Arinze (Stationery Stores).

The others are striker Kapko Damien Uniel (ASVO, Benin Republic), Nafiu Kabuga (from Rivers United), Metu Chigozim (from ABS FC), forward Sadik Suleiman (Coton Sport de Garoua, Cameroon) and veteran midfielder Victor Alegbe, who joined from Damak FC of Saudi Arabia.

A statement released by the Bauchi-based club also disclosed that Sixtus Forsah, who was earlier placed on transfer alongside other players, has been recalled to the team, while defender Franklin Anthony and midfielder Williams Ukeme have joined Rangers International FC and Akwa United respectively.

The new players – largely experienced – are expected to help the team stabilize their position in the NPFL and escape relegation this season.

Wikki Tourists, which made an impressive start to the season, are now struggling, and recently hired former Enyimba coach Usman Abd’Allah to improve their fortunes following the sack of Garba Ibrahim.

The Bauchi-based outfit are currently placed 14th on the NPFL standings with 17 points from 14 matches (with a game in hand).