Former Super Eagles defender Uche Okechukwu has been appointed as the new Sporting Director of Enyimba FC, marking a significant change in the football structure of the Nigeria Professional Football League giants. He takes over from Ifeanyi Ekwueme, who recently exited the role after growing concerns over the club’s recruitment strategy and internal management issues that have affected Enyimba’s performances this season.
The decision followed an internal review of the Aba based club’s sporting operations, with sources indicating that player recruitment, squad planning and overall results were central to the assessment. Enyimba are also addressing unresolved matters surrounding the head coach position as part of a wider restructuring aimed at stabilising the club and restoring its competitive edge.
Okechukwu’s arrival further strengthens the leadership group at Enyimba, who are chaired by former Super Eagles captain Nwankwo Kanu, with the club leaning heavily on the experience of ex internationals to guide the current rebuild. Earlier in the week, on January 26, 2026, the Abia State Government announced the appointment of Coach Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel as the new head coach of the club, following approval from Governor Alex Otti.
The former defender brings a wealth of experience from a distinguished playing career. Uche Okechukwu earned 47 caps for Nigeria, featured at two FIFA World Cups and two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, and was part of the squad that lifted the AFCON title in 1994. He also won Olympic gold with Nigeria at the 1996 Games in Atlanta and captained the national team on several occasions before retiring from international football after the 1998 World Cup.
At club level, Okechukwu spent 13 successful years in Turkey, becoming the foreign player with the longest spell in the country. His impact was later recognised when he obtained Turkish citizenship under the name Deniz Uygar. Enyimba will hope his vast experience both on and off the pitch helps steer the club back toward sustained success.
