Enyimba Football Club's esteemed chairman and Nigerian football icon, Ambassador Nwankwo Kanu, has issued a bold challenge to his newly assembled team ahead of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, motivating them to strive tirelessly for the league trophy.

During the final preparatory session before Sunday’s season opener against Barau FC in Kano, the 1996 Olympic gold medalist delivered an inspiring rallying cry. With a storied career guiding Nigeria to international football glory, Kanu emphasized that these players must now convert their dedication and revamped strategies into Championship victory. After narrowly missing the league title with a second-place finish two seasons ago and dropping to sixth place last season, the legendary striker was unmistakably clear: reclaiming the league crown is the ultimate goal for his administration.

“We have revamped this team for one purpose – to win,” Kanu declared with the authority of a man who knows what it means to lift silverware. “Enyimba must always aim for glory. Every player, new or old, has to give their best in every game because when the club shines, it also reflects positively on your own career and personal glory.”

The former Arsenal and Inter Milan star reminded his players that healthy competition for places should not be seen as rivalry but as a tool to raise the team’s standard. He further reassured the squad that his management remains committed to providing all necessary support to motivate them toward achieving their objectives.

“As a management, we are ready to play our part. We will ensure you get what is due to you. All we ask in return is that you go out, play with passion, play with positivity, and deliver results for Enyimba and for yourselves,” he emphasized.

The mood in Aba is already electric as the People’s Elephant, Nigeria’s most successful league side with nine NPFL titles, prepare to unleash a blend of fresh signings and seasoned campaigners under the watchful eye of their iconic chairman.

With Kanu’s words ringing in their ears, the message is clear: this Enyimba side has been challenged to rise above past near misses and restore the club to its familiar place at the pinnacle of Nigerian football.

The 2025/26 NPFL season begins this weekend, and Enyimba will on Sunday in their first game take on newly promoted Barau FC of Kano in one of the match day one encounters.