Abia State Governor Alex Otti has appointed Daniel Eke as the new Sporting Director for Enyimba Football Club as part of efforts to restore the historic club to its former glory and elite status in African football.

The appointment was announced by the state government as part of a broader restructuring initiative aimed at revitalizing the Peoples Elephant, one of Nigeria’s most successful and decorated football clubs.

Enyimba FC, based in Aba, the commercial hub of Abia State, has won the Nigerian Professional Football League a record nine times and became the first Nigerian club to win back-to-back CAF Champions League titles in 2003 and 2004. However, the club has struggled in recent years to replicate those historic achievements.

Governor Otti, who has made youth development and sports a priority of his administration, expressed confidence that Eke possesses the experience and vision needed to lead Enyimba’s resurgence.

“We are committed to restoring Enyimba to its rightful place as one of Africa’s premier football clubs. Daniel Eke’s appointment as Sporting Director is a critical step in that direction. His track record and understanding of modern football administration make him the right person for this role,” the governor stated.

As Sporting Director, Eke will be responsible for overseeing the club’s football operations, including player recruitment, youth development programs, coaching appointments, and strategic planning. The position is crucial in modern football management, serving as the bridge between the club’s board and its technical staff.

The appointment comes at a time when Nigerian football clubs are increasingly adopting professional management structures to compete more effectively both domestically and on the continental stage.

Eke is expected to work closely with the club’s management and technical crew to develop both short-term and long-term strategies for success. Priority areas are likely to include strengthening the squad, improving training facilities, and establishing robust scouting and youth development systems.

Enyimba’s supporters, known for their passionate backing of the club, have welcomed the appointment as a sign that the state government is serious about investing in the team’s success. The club enjoys a large following not just in Abia State but across Nigeria and has historically been a source of pride for the entire South-East region.

The People’s Elephant last won the CAF Champions League in 2004 and has been unable to reclaim continental glory despite several attempts. In recent domestic campaigns, the club has also fallen short of winning the Nigeria Professional Football League title, increasing pressure for comprehensive reforms.

Governor Otti’s administration has indicated that the appointment of a Sporting Director is just one element of a broader plan to modernize Enyimba FC. Other initiatives reportedly under consideration include infrastructure upgrades, improved welfare packages for players and staff, and enhanced commercial operations to generate sustainable revenue.

Daniel Eke is expected to assume his duties immediately and will face the challenge of delivering results while building a sustainable foundation for long-term success.

Football stakeholders across Nigeria will be watching closely to see whether the restructuring efforts translate into improved performances on the pitch and a return to Enyimba’s glory days as a dominant force in African club football.