Abia State Governor Alex Otti has formally approved the appointment of Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel as the new head coach of Enyimba International Football Club. Commissioner for Information Okey Kanu announced the decision on Monday, signaling a major shift in the technical leadership of the Aba-based giants. The state government seeks to restore the legendary status of the club following a period of decline that saw the team fall below its historical standards of excellence.
Coach Emmanuel brings a distinguished resume to the People’s Elephant, holding CAF A, B, and C coaching licenses alongside extensive experience in both Nigerian and Cameroonian football. His credentials include winning the Nigeria National League Best Coach Award in 2025, a feat that solidified his reputation as a top-tier tactician. This appointment follows the brief tenure of Deji Ayeni, who took charge just last week but suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Niger Tornadoes in Minna.
Governor Otti remains committed to establishing strong corporate governance and professional discipline within the organization to ensure long-term sustainability. The administration views the arrival of the new manager as a strategic move to sharpen the team’s competitive edge and modernize its technical operations. Enyimba fans expect the veteran coach to implement immediate changes to the squad’s tactical approach as they look to climb the league standings.
The official statement from the Commissioner for Information detailed the vision behind the hiring: “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.”