Good Day All,
Yesterday was Thanksgiving in the United States, a day set aside to appreciate the Lord for His blessings and kindness. Many spent it around crowded tables with family and friends, sharing affection, stories, and plates that never seem to get empty. It remains one of my favorite holidays, second only to Christmas.
I am always struck by how intentionally the founding fathers of this country structured traditions to preserve values across generations. Systems, rituals, reminders — all designed to keep priorities anchored. And yes, the food plays a part too. The less we talk about that, the better for my waistline.
Now, onto the big Elephant in the room.
Unless you have been living under a rock, you already know that Enyimba has moved quickly in their search for a new head coach after parting ways with Stanley Eguma. Several names have surfaced, but it appears the leading candidate is Coach Deji Ayeni of Crown FC, Ogbomosho.
Like many of you, I heard his name for the first time last night. So I did what any concerned fan would do, I checked the NNL standings. His Crown FC team currently sits at the top of the table, which is no small feat in a league as unpredictable as the NNL.
We must also acknowledge that the NPFL is a different battlefield entirely. But Ayeni has previously coached Akwa United and Sunshine Stars, and according to respected journalist Fisayo Dairo, his stints there were “good.” If Mr. Dairo says so, I am inclined to trust the man’s assessment.
But does that guarantee success at Enyimba? No. A coach is only as good as the environment he is given. Even if you brought Guardiola or Ancelotti into a club where salaries are delayed, bonuses vanish mysteriously, and injured players are abandoned, the outcome would be the same. You cannot plant roses in concrete and expect a garden.
So while it is encouraging that the club appears to be closing in on a promising replacement, this appointment will only work if the management finally learns what running a football club truly requires. I actually prefer someone like Ayeni to an Ogunbote return, but the coach alone cannot save a sinking structure.
We are at the edge of a new chapter. Whether it becomes a revival or another recycled disappointment will depend entirely on the environment Enyimba provides this coach. Perhaps tomorrow I should outline what the club must do for Ayeni — or anyone — to succeed here. Because we cannot keep assuming Kanu and Ekwueme know these things. If they did, the evidence would be visible.
A new coach can steady the ship, but only real leadership can change its direction. The next chapter depends entirely on whether Enyimba chooses growth or repeats old mistakes.
Back tomorrow.
EnyimbaEnyi
