Abia State Governor Alex Otti has approved the appointment of Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel as the new head coach of Enyimba International FC.

The appointment was confirmed on Monday in a statement issued by the Abia State Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, who acknowledged that Enyimba, widely regarded as Nigeria’s most successful club, has fallen short of its famed standards in recent seasons.

According to Kanu, the Otti administration is determined to reset the club’s direction through professionalism, sustainability and strong corporate governance, with the choice of Deutsch Detchoua seen as central to that vision.

“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,” the statement read.

It added that the new Enyimba coach brings significant pedigree to the role. The statement continued: “Coach Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel is a highly experienced football tactician with CAF A, B, and C coaching licenses.

“He has worked as a 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.”

Governor Otti expressed confidence that the coach’s experience, technical expertise and professional discipline would play a key role in the rebuilding process at the People’s Elephant.

The appointment comes just days after Enyimba named former Crown FC coach Deji Ayeni as head coach. However, that decision failed to yield an immediate turnaround, as the Aba club slipped to a 2-0 away defeat against Niger Tornadoes in Minna.

Elsewhere in the NPFL, Rangers International have been hit by the departure of left-back Evans Ogbonda. The defender confirmed his exit from the former league champions in an emotional farewell message to the Flying Antelopes, bringing an end to his spell at the Enugu club.

Ogbonda, who joined Rangers in 2024, thanked the club’s hierarchy, technical crew and supporters for their backing throughout his time with the team. He is expected to secure a move to a new club before the close of the current transfer window.

“I want to thank the incredible general manager, Amobi Ezeaku and the manager Fidelis Ilechukwu for their unwavering support and everything they did for me,” Ogbonda stated. “I’m also grateful to other coaches, backroom staffs supporters and the management.”