.…..Hails Club’s Youth Development Project
In a stirring show of solidarity and clarity, former Super Eagles striker and Anambra State Football Association Chairman, Iloenyosi Chikelue, popularly known as “The General”, has thrown his weight behind the Kanu Nwankwo-led management of Enyimba FC, urging critics to respect the process as the People’s Elephant undergo a strategic rebuild.
Speaking passionately to sports journalists in Aba, the ex-international dismissed murmurs of dissatisfaction trailing the club’s current fortunes, insisting that the team’s leadership, under Nigerian football icon Kanu Nwankwo and Sporting Director Ifeanyi Ekwueme, deserves commendation—not condemnation.
“The management and Ifeanyi Ekwueme are doing well. This is a team with a rich legacy, but football doesn’t guarantee you trophies every season. Sometimes, people forget that management doesn’t step on the pitch—it’s the players who execute the plan. You rebuild, you strategize, and you trust the process”, Iloanusi said bluntly.
The Enyimba faithful have grown increasingly restless in recent weeks following some underwhelming results, but Iloenyosi offered a firm reminder of football’s unpredictable rhythm, emphasizing that a single loss should not trigger a witch-hunt.
“They don’t have a bad team. It’s a transitional phase. Just like the NFF under Gusau is doing its job despite the Super Eagles not being at their best, the same applies to Enyimba. You judge a system over time—not by isolated setbacks.”
He commended the club’s investment in youth development which saw their U-19 as leaders of their conference in the Youth League and the feeder team competing well in the ongoing NLO tournament.
The football administrator also hailed the ongoing 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season under the leadership of Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, calling it one of the most competitive and open in recent history.
“This is the kind of league we’ve dreamed of—teams going away and getting points, underdogs holding giants. It’s refreshing. Look at Remo Stars. Their consistency and world-class facilities are setting a new standard. They’re Champions-elect in my books.”
While celebrating the league’s improvements, Iloanusi did not shy away from addressing a lingering concern: pockets of insecurity at some match venues. He issued a direct appeal to State Football Associations across the country to forge robust alliances with security agencies, a practice he says has already yielded success in Anambra State.
“Security is key. We’ve implemented a strong synergy with security outfits in Anambra. It’s something other states must replicate to keep the game safe and welcoming for everyone.”
In the end, “The General” served up a timely reminder that success in football is a marathon, not a sprint—and that rebuilding giants like Enyimba need encouragement, not criticism, to rise again.
As the NPFL continues to thrill fans across the country with unpredictable results and electrifying football, voices like Iloanusi’s offer the balance and wisdom the beautiful game so desperately needs.
Source/Enyimba Media
