Rangers International technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu has explained why he rejected an offer to return to Plateau United, insisting that his decision to remain in Enugu is rooted in trust, long-term planning, and belief in the club’s leadership.
Speaking to journalists at the Rangers headquarters amid speculation surrounding his future, with his current contract set to expire in May, Ilechukwu confirmed that Plateau United had approached him but said he was unwilling to abandon what he described as a carefully laid foundation at Rangers.
He stressed that his personal philosophy is closely aligned with the trust, direction and long-term vision of the club’s General Manager and CEO, Barr Amobi Ezeaku, describing that alignment as central to his decision to stay.
“I want to thank the General Manager of Rangers International, Barr Amobi Ezeaku, the best GM in the world,” Ilechukwu said.
“In a few years to come, it can be me, it can be somebody else. What matters is that there is a fantastic foundation.”
Ilechukwu alongside Ezeaku after renewing his contract last year. Photo Credit: Rangers media
The Super Eagles assistant coach revealed that discussions with Rangers management have gone beyond contract terms and focused instead on institutional stability and continuity.
“What we are trying to do, or what the general manager has done so far, is the foundation. If tomorrow I am not around, the next people that are coming will stand on that foundation,” he said.
Ilechukwu disclosed that he had actually informed the Rangers general manager of his intention to leave when the Plateau United offer emerged, believing his work at the club was nearing completion.
“I called the general manager and told him I wanted to leave when the Plateau United offer came, but he said, ‘No, who do you want me to hire?’” he explained.
“I felt we now have a better foundation than when we took over.”
Fidelis Ilechukwu. Photo Credit: NPFL/X
Plateau United, despite reportedly offering improved financial terms, were unable to lure their former coach back to Jos and eventually appointed Gbenga Ogunbote.
While reaffirming his commitment to Rangers, Ilechukwu admitted that personal development and physical demands had also influenced his thinking.
“I also want to go to school. Maybe after this season, I want to take a little rest, face education and come back later,” he said.
Despite interest from multiple quarters, the 2023 NPFL title-winning coach stressed that he would not force an exit or cling to his position at all costs.
“I don’t want to force myself to stay, and I don’t want to stay by all means. I have so many options. But if you want to keep me, you keep me in the condition that I deserve.”
Photo Credit: NPFL/X
He maintained that his choice to remain at Rangers was driven by unfinished structural work rather than sentiment or short-term success.
“I want to make sure that we complete this foundation, and that this foundation will not fall,” he said.
Central to that vision, according to Ilechukwu, is Rangers youth development structure, which he described as the backbone of the club’s future.
“Our academy, under-10, under-15, under-17 and under-19 these things matter to us. Bringing top equipment, bringing proper training sessions, so that from under-10 to under-19 there is a clear pathway.”
He added that the club’s long-term plan is to significantly reduce dependence on external recruitment.
“In the next three to four years, Rangers will only sign 30 per cent of players from outside. Seventy per cent will come from the field house team when they graduate.”
Fidelis Ilechukwu in the Pre match press conference. Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
Ilechukwu also emphasised succession planning, saying he deliberately prepares other coaches to be capable of replacing him.
“Without bitterness or any beef, I want people good enough to take my position. Even if I’m not around, this foundation must continue to grow.”
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While admitting that he felt underappreciated after winning the league in the 2023/2024 season, the eight-time champions’ coach insisted that trophies alone are not his primary motivation.
“I don’t want to win by all means. I don’t want to win everything,” he said.
“I want to win more by producing young players, players we will see in the Super Eagles tomorrow, players we will see in top clubs tomorrow. It’s not all about winning trophies; it’s about changing lives and producing players.”
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Rangers International will tomorrow face Warri Wolves on Matchday 22 of the Nigeria Premier Football League in Enugu as Ilechukwu continues his push to blend results with long-term player development.
