The Enugu Rangers International Football Academy on Sunday held its Award and Christmas Party at the Camp David Centre, Enugu bringing together young players, coaches, parents, club officials and government representatives to celebrate a year of growth and commitment.
The colourful event was highlighted by awards, medals of honour for all academy players and strong messages of appreciation and direction from the academy leadership and the Enugu State Government.
Welcoming guests, Rangers Corporation General Manager and Chief Executive Officer, Barrister Amobi Ezeaku, described the occasion as the club’s first-ever end-of-year party and award day for its youth teams, spanning the Under-10 to Under-15 categories.
“Today is about celebrating our boys, appreciating our coaches and parents, and sharing a journey that has only just begun but already means so much to the future of Rangers and Enugu State,” Amobi said.
Rangers GM Amobi Ezeaku speaking during the event. Photo Credit: Rangers Media
The Rangers chief explained that the youth programme was conceived as a long-term investment in the club’s future, stressing that sustainability remains central to Rangers’ vision.
“Great clubs don’t just buy players, they build them,” he stated. “We started this youth programme because Rangers must be sustainable.”
Amobi added that beyond football development, the academy is designed to instil discipline, character and strong educational values in its players.
215 Academy players was registered for the first year. Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
“This is not just about football. It is about discipline, character, education and values — giving our children direction, confidence and opportunity through the game,” he said.
He further outlined the club’s long-term ambition for the academy, revealing a clear pathway from the youth teams to the Rangers senior side.
“Our vision is to build the most admired youth football programme in Nigeria and to create a clear pathway to the Rangers senior team,” Amobi added. “Every boy here should be able to see his future clearly and know that it is possible.”
Amobi disclosed that the project began with screening exercises across Enugu State, leading to the formation of structured Under-10, Under-13 and Under-15 teams supported by professional coaching and organised training sessions.
Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
He noted that within a short period, the academy has recorded encouraging progress, including regular competitive matches and curtain-raiser games before Rangers’ senior fixtures.
“Giving these boys the opportunity to play before our senior matches gives them confidence, exposure and pride,” he said.
The Rangers CEO also expressed appreciation to the Enugu State Government and parents for their support of the project.
“I want to sincerely thank the Enugu State Government, the Governor, the SSG, the Commissioner for Sports, our parents and guardians, our coaches and everyone who believes in this vision,” Amobi said.
Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
“To our young players, you are the future of Rangers. Work hard, stay disciplined and respect your parents and coaches.”
Academy Director Ejike Uzoenyi also paid tribute to the Rangers management, coaches and parents, describing the academy as a project driven by passion rather than financial reward.
“I know a lot about this academy and I am thanking the General Manager for saying yes to this academy, regardless of the ups and downs before the commencement,” Uzoenyi said.
Uzoenyi played 21 matches for the Super Eagles and scored 3 goals.Photo Credit:Rangers Media
“This job is a voluntary job. Nobody is paying the coaches week in, week out. They just come here to support these children.
“After God, it is the parents that will take the glory of us being here today because you are the motivation that keeps me standing here.”
The AFCON 2013 winner with the Super Eagles also revealed that plans are already in motion to further structure and strengthen the academy in 2026.
On the awards front, Echozona-Anigbogu Chinaetugo Daron was named Most Famous Player of the Year, with the academy captain recognised for his leadership and influence.
The Most Consistent Player of the Year award went to Ani David Chidozie, in recognition of his discipline and steady performances.
Photo Credit: Rangers Media
In a symbolic gesture, all academy players received medals of honour, underlining the club’s commitment to inclusive development.
The event was further enriched by the presence of the Secretary to the State Government, Enugu State, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, who spoke on behalf of Governor Dr Peter Mbah.
Prof. Onyia praised the Rangers leadership and recalled the circumstances surrounding Amobi’s appointment.
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“There was intense internal politicking during the process of appointing Amobi as Rangers’ GM/CEO,” he recalled. “But the Governor and some of us stood by him, and he has not failed us.”
Photo Credit: Rangers Media
The SSG also stressed the importance of education and parental sacrifice, describing the academy players as the future of the state.
“Our tomorrow is here,” Prof. Onyia said. “You can be talented, but you must also have knowledge. Talent is good, but knowledge makes even the talent more impactful.”
He urged parents to continue supporting the programme and called for prayers and backing for the state government.
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The Award and Christmas Party capped a memorable year for the Rangers Academy, reinforcing its mission to blend football excellence with education and character development as it prepares its young talents for the future.
