Enyimba Football Club of Aba have confirmed the departure of 22 players from their senior squad, with three others loaned out, as part of their restructuring ahead of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.

The club made the announcement via its official page on Monday, noting that the move was necessary to fine-tune the squad before the new campaign kicks off on August 22.

Among those released are Brown Ideye, Ani Ozoemenam, Musa Babalola, Innocent Gabriel, and Fatai Abdulahi. Others include Umeh Gozie, Alade Balogun, Imo Ikemdinachi, and Leonard Obinna.

The trio sent out on loan are Obichere Odinaka, Purpose Ahumaraezemma, and Samuel Nuako.

Enyimba, a two-time CAF Champions League winner, expressed gratitude to the departing players and wished them success in their careers.

The People’s Elephant will begin their league campaign with an away clash against newly promoted Barau FC, before welcoming Niger Tornadoes and Nasarawa United in Aba.

Opinion:
This bold squad overhaul signals that Enyimba mean business ahead of the new season. By releasing as many as 22 players, the management has shown a willingness to make difficult decisions in pursuit of renewed dominance.

But with big change comes big risk. Stability has always been Enyimba’s backbone, and trimming so heavily could backfire if the incoming players fail to adapt quickly. Fans, however, will find comfort in knowing the club isn’t shying away from ambition.

The People’s Elephant, with their history and pedigree, are never content with mediocrity. Their fans demand titles, both at home and abroad. Starting against Barau FC, every kick of the ball will be a test of whether this gamble pays off.

For now, the message is clear: Enyimba are pressing reset, and the 2025/26 season might just write a new chapter in their storied legacy.