By Chigozie Chukwuleta
As the curtain falls on Ijele Sports Club’s inaugural season in the Nigerian National League (NNL), Chief Executive Officer Barrister Ferdinand A. Naza has expressed gratitude and optimism despite the team’s relegation to the Nationwide League One (NLO 1).
In a heartfelt end-of-season message, Naza acknowledged the challenges faced by the team, including logistical issues, officiating inconsistencies, and systemic problems within the league structure. However, he highlighted moments of resilience and growth, citing a notable 2-0 victory over former champions Beyond Limit FC.
The CEO praised the coaches, players, sponsors, partners, and fans for their dedication, passion, and support. He commended the coaches for their tactical ingenuity and the players for their perseverance.
Naza assured stakeholders that the club will regroup, restructure, and return stronger in the NLO 1. “Ijele will be back. Stronger. Better. Wiser,” he declared.
The message concluded with a call to action, emphasizing the club’s commitment to success and the importance of unity among its supporters. “Together, we move forward. Together, we remain Ijele, the pride of East, the heartbeat of the people.”
The Message Read:
END OF SEASON MESSAGE FROM THE CEO, IJELE SPORTS CLUB
To: Our Esteemed Coaches, Players, Sponsors, Partners, and Loyal Supporters/Fans.
A SEASON OF LEARNING, GROWTH, AND GRATITUDE
Dear Ijele Family,
As we bring the curtain down on what has been a remarkable and eventful first season in the Nigerian National League (NNL), I write to you with a heart full of gratitude, humility, and renewed hope for the future of Ijele Sports Club.
This season, though culminating in our relegation to the Nationwide League One (NLO 1), has been one filled with powerful lessons, spirited performances, and moments that truly define the resilience and identity of this great club. While the results did not always go our way, what cannot be disputed is the courage, belief, and growth that our team exhibited in the face of numerous challenges—both internally and externally.
From logistical obstacles, officiating inconsistencies, and a difficult calendar, to the broader systemic issues that plague our league structure, this season tested our resolve as a young club. Yet, we stood tall, we competed with honour, and we wore the badge with pride in every match we played.
Among the many highlights of our debut NNL campaign was our emphatic 2–0 victory against Beyond Limit FC, the former champions of the 2024 season. That singular performance—disciplined, dynamic, and determined—reminded us and our supporters of what this club is capable of achieving. It showcased the potential that lies within our young squad, and the tactical nous of our technical crew, even as we navigated the pressures of our maiden professional campaign.
To our coaches and technical staff, I salute your unyielding dedication, tactical ingenuity, and daily sacrifices. You worked with limited resources, yet continued to inspire our players with belief and discipline. You laid a strong foundation for what this club can become in the near future.
To our players, thank you for your passion, professionalism, and perseverance. You wore our colours with pride, gave your all on the pitch, and fought until the final whistle. Your effort will not be forgotten, and we are already looking forward to building on this experience together.
To our sponsors and partners, your support and confidence in this project made it possible for us to compete at this level. You stood by us, not just in the moments of glory, but also in the trials that define a true sporting journey. Your belief in Ijele Sports Club is the fuel that powers our vision.
To our supporters and fans, you are the heart of this club. Whether at home in Enugu or away in far-flung towns across Nigeria, your chants, your drumming, and your presence lifted our spirits. You have shown that Ijele is more than just a team—it is a movement. We heard your voices, we saw your colours, and we felt your love.
Let it be known: Ijele will be back. Stronger. Better. Wiser.
We are returning to the NLO 1 not with bowed heads, but with renewed focus and an iron resolve to correct our shortcomings. We will restructure, we will reinforce, and we will rise.
To every person who stood by us through the ups and the downs, I say thank you. You are part of our journey, and our success story will not be complete without you.
Together, we move forward. Together, we remain Ijele, the pride of East, the heartbeat of the people.
Onward to the new season!
With warm regards and sincere appreciation.
Signed:
Ferdinand A. Naza, MCArb, UEFA CFM
Chief Executive Officer
IJELE SPORTS CLUB
Enugu, Nigeria
29th June 2025
