Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa produced an assist before midfielder Rabiu Ali scored the only goal for Kano Pillars which ensured a defeat against visiting Adamawa United in Kaduna.
Elsewhere, It was a harvest of away wins on matchday 21 in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
Akwa United, playing “away” at the Nest of Champions in Uyo, had no mercy on Dakkada FC as they triumph to stay top, on superior goal difference over Kano Pillars.
Rivers United shocked Rangers at home to maintain fourth spot, while third placed Kwara United overcome reigning champions Plateau United.
Nasarawa United recorded a win in Bauchi over Wikki Tourists, just as MFM achieved maximum points against hosts Warri Wolves.
Matchday 21 results
Kano Pillars 1-0 Adamawa United
Heartland 2-0 Katsina United
Wikki Tourists 1-2 Nasarawa United
Kwara United 2-0 Plateau United
Rangers 0-1 Rivers United
Dakkada FC 0-2 Akwa United
Sunshine Stars 0-0 Jigawa Golden Stars
Lobi Stars 2-0 FC IfeanyiUbah
Warri Wolves 0-2 MFM