Good day, Elephants!
In Nigeria, the expression “no man’s land” is a highly debated political and cultural phrase, most commonly associated with Lagos.
Historically and figuratively, the phrase has been used to describe Lagos as a cosmopolitan melting pot where Nigerians from every ethnic background can settle, thrive and pursue their ambitions. It was first used in 1947 by Hon. Jaja Anucha Nwachukwu, who later became Nigeria’s first Speaker of the House of Representatives, and was subsequently popularised in 1979 by Alhaji Lateef Jakande, the first executive governor of Lagos State, during his famous inaugural address.
This, of course, does not mean Lagos has no indigenous people. The traditional owners of the land are known, and nobody is disputing that fact.
In football, especially among Enyimba supporters, we have adopted the phrase in our own way. Lagos has often felt like a second home to us. From FA Cup triumphs to our impressive runs in the city, and the massive support we have received there which have made us repeatedly declare that “Lagos is no man’s land” and subsequently backed it up with results.
However, the last two seasons have offered a different reality. Ikorodu City have remained unbeaten against us, and with Lagos now boasting three teams in the NPFL instead of one, within that period, the clubs from the city may be growing increasingly confident about coming to Aba and leaving with something to celebrate.
We will face the two promoted Lagos sides in quick succession at home over the next two Igbo market weeks (8 days). Those matches are as important as any other because Enyimba are still searching for their first victory of the season. To make matters worse, our recent record against newly promoted teams has been deeply disappointing, and that trend continued against Deji Ayeni’s Doma United last weekend.
It is time to reinforce our fortress.
If this club is to return to being the feared side it once was, Aba must become a difficult destination for every visiting team. We must make it a slaughter ground, not in the literal or violent sense, of course, but in the footballing sense. We should give opponents a warm reception, do the damage on the pitch, and still ensure they return home safely in one piece but without a point.
When the Lagos teams arrive, we must use those matches to send a message to the other 17 clubs preparing to visit Aba. Our home must once again become our strongest weapon. If we fail to make that statement, this could become a very long season.
Nevertheless, if we get the right things in place and rediscover our hunger, discipline and confidence, we can retain Aba as our own, in every meaningful sense.
Enyimba Enyi!
