Former African champions, Enyimba of Aba, have appointed Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel, a Cameroonian, as their new head coach for the remainder of the 2025/26 season.

Lawrence Ukaegbu, a former international, has been in charge of the Peoples Elephant’s technical duties since Coach Stanley Eguma was relieved of the position last year over dwindling performance.

A statement by Abia State Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, yesterday, said that Governor Alex Otti has approved Emmanuel’s appointment as Enyimba’s new head coach with immediate effect.

The statement read: “Enyimba International Football Club remains Nigeria’s most decorated football club and one of Abia State’s most prominent sporting brands.

As a two-time CAF Champions League winner and multiple-time domestic league champion, Enyimba has historically projected Abia State on the continental football stage and inspired generations of footballers and supporters.

“In recent times, the club has experienced a decline from its traditional standards of excellence. The administration of Governor Alex Otti is determined to restore Enyimba’s pride of place as a dominant force in Nigerian and African football, while also repositioning the club for professionalism, sustainability, and strong corporate governance.

“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.”

It described the new coach as a “highly experienced football tactician with CAF A, B, and C coaching licenses, who 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.”

It was not known as at yesterday if the new coach would be in charge of Enyimba when they confront Nasarawa United in a Week 23 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) game today in Lafia, but the former Akwa United boss will be in charge for their home tie with Bayelsa United on February 1 in Aba.