Jan 10

Jan 10 Enyimba Handed Timely Boost as Ihemekwele Returns Ahead of NPFL Restart

Enyimba FC have received a welcome lift ahead of the resumption of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) second stanza, with striker Ifeanyi Ihemekwele returning from injury to rejoin the People’s Elephant.

Ihemekwele had been sidelined since sustaining an injury in Enyimba’s Abia State President Federation Cup final clash against Ahudiyannem FC last season. After weeks of recovery, the forward is now back in training with his teammates as preparations intensify for the second half of the league campaign.

The striker featured prominently for Enyimba last term, scoring four goals in 25 appearances, and his return adds depth and attacking options to the Aba giants at a crucial stage of the season.

In further positive news for the nine-time NPFL champions, Ekene Awazie and Uwana Asuquo are also edging closer to full fitness after spending time on the treatment table, raising hopes of a stronger, more competitive squad when the league resumes.

Enyimba will kick off their second-stanza campaign with a clash against Barau FC on Wednesday, January 14.

Opinion: A Quiet but Crucial Turning Point for Enyimba

While Ihemekwele’s return may not grab national headlines, it could prove decisive for Enyimba’s ambitions in the second half of the season. In a league as physically demanding and tightly contested as the NPFL, squad depth often separates title contenders from the rest.

Enyimba have shown flashes of quality this season but have also struggled with consistency — a problem injuries have only made worse. The return of key attackers not only boosts competition for places but also restores belief within the squad and among the fans.

For Ihemekwele, this is more than just a comeback; it’s an opportunity to reassert himself and make a meaningful impact when it matters most. If he and the returning duo regain sharpness quickly, Enyimba could yet mount a strong push in the second stanza.

The message from Aba is clear: the People’s Elephant are reloading, not retreating.