Kanu’s Friends in Kano Splash Cash Gifts on Enyimba After Gritty League Opener

 

The indomitable spirit of Enyimba International FC has once again attracted reward and recognition — this time from Igbo business moguls based in Kano, who lavished the People’s Elephant with cash gifts and a grand treat after their heroic display in the 2025/26 Nigeria Professional Football League opener.

Despite being reduced to ten men in the closing stages, the nine-time NPFL champions held their ground to secure a goalless draw against newcomers Barau FC at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano. Their fighting character did not go unnoticed by friends and admirers of club chairman, Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu.

Moved by the players’ resilience and inspired by the leadership of “Papilo,” prominent Igbo businessmen in Kano rolled out the drums to celebrate Enyimba’s gallant performance. Among the dignitaries were Mr. Julius Orji Madu, Chief Okechukwu Jnr Madu, Chief Peter Ajitex of Ajitex Petroleum & Lubricant LTD and Mr. Udo, CEO of Kenneth Global Pharmaceutical, who, alongside other well-meaning patrons, feted the team and showered them with cash rewards running into millions of naira.

In their remarks, the businessmen described Enyimba as the pride of Nigerian football and a beacon of Igbo resilience. They lauded the club for making the Igbo community in Kano proud through their grit and determination.

“This team embodies hard work, unity and never-say-die spirit — values we as Igbo cherish deeply. We thank them for standing tall in a difficult game and for making us proud,” one of the benefactors declared as the players smiled in appreciation.

The gesture, beyond its immediate financial boost, is seen as a reflection of the renewed faith in Kanu’s inspirational leadership at Enyimba. Since taking charge, the former Super Eagles captain has championed a revival at the Aba giants, rallying support from all quarters to restore the club’s continental dominance.

The businessmen urged the players to sustain their momentum, charging them to go all out in the new season for the league crown and another continental ticket.

The players through the captain, Paschal Eze appreciated the awesome gesture promising to keep the Honour going higher.

For Enyimba, the message from Kano was clear: they are not just playing for themselves or their chairman, but for millions of fans and communities across Nigeria who see in them as living symbol of excellence, courage, and unity.