Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle was in the stands as Kano Pillars staged a comeback to defeat holders Rangers 2-1 at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday.
Rangers silenced the home crowd when Bashir Usman converted from the penalty spot in the 33rd minute.
However, experienced midfielder Rabiu Ali levelled the score for Pillars with another penalty three minutes before half-time.
Jerry Alex secured all three points for Pillars with the winner on the hour mark.
In Ikenne, Remo Stars extended their lead at the top with a narrow 1-0 home victory over Plateau United.
Samson Olasupo netted the decisive goal 14 minutes from time.
Full Results
Kano Pillars 2-1 Rangers
Bayelsa Utd 2-1 Bendel Insurance
Tornadoes 0-1 Enyimba
Remo Stars 1-0 Plateau Utd
Ikorodu City 2-0 Heartland
Abia Warriors 1-1 Nasarawa Utd