Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has officially unveiled Mr. Emmanuel Dutch as the new Head Coach of Enyimba International F.C., in a decisive move aimed at restoring the club’s pride of place in Nigerian and continental football.
The announcement was made during a strategic meeting with the club’s management at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba.
Represented by his Deputy, Chief Ikechukwu Emetu, Governor Otti also revealed the appointment of Mr. Daniel Eke as the club’s new Sporting Director. In the same vein, the Governor approved the removal of the club’s accountant as part of broader reforms to reposition the team for excellence, transparency, and accountability.
The sweeping changes come amid mounting concerns over the club’s administrative and welfare challenges, which have significantly affected player morale and performance in recent times.
Addressing the management, technical crew, and players, the Deputy Governor conveyed the state government’s firm commitment to immediately settle all outstanding arrears, including unpaid salaries, allowances, match bonuses, and other welfare entitlements owed to players and staff.
He assured the team that the present administration remains fully committed to revitalizing the club, stressing that the reforms being introduced are designed to usher in a new era of professionalism, transparency, and competitive success.
Governor Otti further urged the players to embrace the new leadership structure and cooperate fully with Coach Emmanuel Dutch in repositioning Enyimba to its “rightful place in the world of football.”
“Government is resolute in its determination to restore Enyimba to greatness,” the Deputy Governor affirmed, adding that improved welfare and sound management will be central to the rebuilding process.
In his acceptance speech, the newly Head Coach, Mr. Emmanuel Dutch, conveyed his heartfelt gratitude to the Governor for entrusting him with the role.
He assured the State Government, the management team, players, and supporters of his commitment to instilling discipline, professionalism, and a fresh tactical approach within the squad.
He also pledged to work closely with the Sporting Director and the entire team to revive the club’s winning tradition, affirming his determination not to let the Government and the people of the State down.
Earlier in their separate remarks, the team’s Captain, Mr. Kalu Nweke; Assistant Captain, Mr. Ufere Chinedu; and senior player, Mr. Eze Ekwutosi painted a sobering picture of the challenges confronting the club.
They lamented the non-payment of salaries, allowances, and match bonuses, as well as the lack of adequate medical and welfare support for injured players. According to them, the poor welfare structure has dampened morale and hindered optimal performance.
The players appealed to the state government to urgently address their grievances to enable the club regain stability and return to winning ways.
With a new technical head, a sporting director in place, and a pledge to clear outstanding debts, expectations are high that Enyimba, long regarded as one of Nigeria’s most successful football clubs, will soon begin a fresh chapter marked by stability, professionalism, and renewed continental ambition.
