As the curtains draw open on the 2025/26 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season this weekend, Enyimba’s dynamic winger Joseph Atule is leading the charge with unrelenting drive, signaling a title bid that’s anything but subtle.
Speaking ahead of the People’s Elephant’s season opener against newly promoted Barau FC on Sunday at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano, the pacey forward declared that Enyimba are not in the mood to settle for anything less than maximum points — not just in Kano, but in every single game of the season.
“Coming to Kano, we are here for all maximum points, not even a draw,” Atule said with striking confidence. “We’ve worked hard as a group, both new and old players, building synergy during our preseason games. Our faces already express our heart desires — this season is about glory, nothing less.”
Atule, who netted eight goals last season to finish joint-top scorer for the Aba giants alongside Ekene Ezenwa, believes the hunger in the camp is enough motivation to restore Enyimba to their familiar winning pedestal.
“It’s not just in Kano, but everywhere we play, we’ll fight for maximum points. This is going to be a different ball game, and I know the fans can’t wait to see the NPFL’s best return to glory again.”
The encounter will be Enyimba’s first-ever clash with Barau FC, the Kano-based private side who recently sealed promotion from the Nigeria National League (NNL). But for Coach Stanley Eguma’s men, fresh from lifting the Ifeanyi Ekwueme Tico/Select Preseason Tournament, Sunday’s battle is more than just about history — it is about making a bold statement of intent.
The last time Enyimba played in Kano, they stumbled to a 2-0 loss against Kano Pillars. But with Atule leading the charge and confidence at an all-time high, the People’s Elephant look primed to silence their doubters and begin their march for a record-extending NPFL crown.
