The Abia State Government has announced the appointment of Coach Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel as the new Head Coach of Enyimba International Football Club, Aba, following approval by Governor Alex Otti.
The decision comes at a time when Enyimba are struggling for form, having failed to win any of their last five matches in all competitions and currently sitting 12th on the NPFL table, a position far below the expectations of Nigeria’s most decorated club.
While the government says the move is part of efforts to restore Enyimba’s pride and reposition the club for professionalism and long-term success, the appointment has sparked debate among football fans and stakeholders, with many questioning why the state government rather than the club’s management is directly appointing a head coach.
Critics argue that such decisions should be handled by the club’s board and technical department in line with modern football governance, while others believe urgent intervention was necessary due to the team’s poor run of results.
Adding to the uncertainty, Enyimba are yet to officially confirm the sacking of current head coach, Deji Ayeni, raising questions about the club’s immediate technical structure and how the transition will be handled.
Coach Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel holds CAF A, B and C coaching licences and has previously worked with clubs in Nigeria and Cameroon as both Technical Adviser and Head Coach. He was named Nigeria National League (NNL) Best Coach in 2025.
Governor Otti has expressed confidence that the new coach’s experience and technical competence will help rebuild Enyimba and return the Aba giants to their traditional position among Nigeria’s top clubs.
In a press release announced on facebook, and signed by Prince Okey Kanu the commissioner for information, it reads
The Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has approved the appointment of Coach Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel as the new Head Coach of Enyimba International Football Club, Aba.
Enyimba International Football Club remains Nigeria’s most decorated football club and one of Abia State’s most prominent sporting brands across Africa. As a two-time CAF Champions League winner and multiple-time domestic league champion, Enyimba has historically projected Abia State on the continental football stage and inspired generations of footballers and supporters.
In recent times, the club has experienced a decline from its traditional standards of excellence. The administration of Governor Alex Otti is determined to restore Enyimba’s pride of place as a dominant force in Nigerian and African football, while also repositioning the club for professionalism, sustainability, and strong corporate governance.
The appointment of Coach Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel is part of the strategic efforts to reinvigorate the technical direction of the club, strengthen its competitive edge, and lay a solid foundation for long-term success.
Coach Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel is a highly experienced football tactician with CAF A, B, and C coaching licenses. He has worked as Technical Adviser and Head Coach with reputable clubs in Nigeria and Cameroon, delivering impressive results. His track record includes several recognitions, notably the Nigeria National League (NNL) Best Coach Award in 2025.
Governor Otti expresses confidence that the wealth of experience, technical competence, and professional discipline of Coach Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel will contribute significantly to the rebuilding process of Enyimba International Football Club and return the club to its rightful position as a powerhouse in Nigerian and African football.
The general public is hereby informed accordingly.”
