Head coach Stanley Eguma has warned that Enyimba cannot yet relax despite sitting at the summit of the Nigeria Premier Football League, as they prepare for a heated match-day five contest against long-time foes Bendel Insurance in Aba today.
The Aba heavyweights, popularly called the People’s Elephant, climbed into first place after a solid 2-0 win away at Bayelsa United last weekend. That result, their first time at the league’s peak since March 2024, gave the side a welcome lift following an inconsistent start to the season. Supporters now believe their team may finally be regaining the form that once made them untouchable domestically.
Eguma praised his players for their attitude in Yenagoa, saying: “After we played a draw at home the last time out, we knew we had to put more effort into the next game, and the players played their heart out against Bayelsa United in Yenagoa. Our opponents also played a good game, but we were better and we got the three points.”
Insurance will not arrive in Aba simply to make up the numbers. The Benin Arsenal recently held Barau FC to a draw on the road and will be targeting more points against their rivals. Eguma knows his men cannot afford to slip, having already dropped points at home against Nasarawa United earlier in the campaign.
He stressed the importance of consistency: “Yes, we are on top of the table, but we are not carried away. We can’t afford to relax at any point. It’s still early days, so we have to keep getting the results.”
Last term, Enyimba’s campaign ended in disappointment with a sixth-place finish. This year, the nine-time champions are determined to re-establish themselves as the benchmark of Nigerian football. The club remains the most decorated in the country, with nine NPFL titles and two CAF Champions League triumphs. Their most recent domestic crown came in 2023 under Finidi George, while their continental double success, more than two decades ago, is still unmatched by any other Nigerian side.
For Eguma, this season is about more than just climbing the table — it is about restoring Enyimba’s aura, proving their dominance once more, and perhaps laying the foundation for another shot at continental glory.
