Ambassador Nwankwo ‘Papilo’ Kanu, Executive Chairman of the Enyimba International Management Committee, has publicly applauded Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for his commitment to revamping the iconic Enyimba International Stadium in Aba.
The stadium, long regarded as a fortress and symbol of pride for Enyimba FC, is currently undergoing significant renovations ahead of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, set to kick off on August 22, 2025.
According to a report by Completesports.com, the two-time African Footballer of the Year (1996 and 1999) described the state government’s intervention as “timely, strategic, and deeply appreciated by the entire Enyimba family.”
Kanu expressed his delight while speaking on the sidelines of the 2nd edition of the Kanu U19 Football Tournament: “Yeah, we are delighted with the renovation work currently going on at the Enyimba Stadium by His Excellency.”
He further praised Governor Otti’s broader governance, stating: “Our Governor has always shown his willingness to deliver the dividends of democracy across all sectors, including sports. What he is doing now gives us both the morale and the infrastructure to push for greatness in the coming season.”
With the NPFL set to enforce strict licensing and club infrastructure standards, Kanu confidently assured stakeholders and fans that Enyimba would exceed the requirements.
“I can assure you that the People’s Elephant will be ready with all the criteria prescribed by the NPFL ahead of the new season,” said the former Arsenal forward. “We are not just getting ready to comply, we’re building to compete and conquer.”
The UEFA Champions League winner with Ajax Amsterdam, now in his second season as Enyimba chairman, reaffirmed the club’s ambition to reclaim the NPFL title and return to the CAF Champions League.
“We are working closely with all arms of the club, from technical to medical, from administration to supporters,” Kanu stated. “Our goal is clear: win the league and return to African interclub competition where we belong. The passion is there, the planning is on course, and the vision is bold.”
With the countdown to the new NPFL season underway, expectations are high in Aba. The infrastructural revival, combined with Kanu’s leadership and Governor Otti’s backing, positions Enyimba FC not just to compete, but to aim for dominance.
The ongoing renovation work includes comprehensive upgrades to the stadium facilities and the provision of a new 500KVA generator to power the scoreboard.
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