Enugu Governor Gifts Rangers N150m, Land for Winning Historic NPFL Title

Governor Peter Mbah has rewarded Rangers International FC with N150 million and plots of land after the club captured the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League title.

The rewards were announced during a special reception hosted by the governor for the players, coaching staff and management at the Government House in Enugu.

Rangers claimed their ninth league title — equalling the national record — after defeating Ikorodu City Boys 2-1 in Lagos on May 24, 2026. The victory also marked the club’s second championship in three seasons under the Mbah administration.

Speaking at the event, the governor said the celebration was akin to welcoming home a child who had distinguished himself through academic excellence.

“We are providing you with a cash gift of N100 million for the players and N50 million for the technical and management crew.

“In addition to that, we have approved a plot of land in Enugu for every player, while additional plots will be allocated to the General Manager, Head Coach, Secretary and Assistant Coach,” Mbah announced.

The governor described Rangers as an institution deeply woven into the history and identity of Enugu State, noting that the club has long represented resilience, unity and hope.

He paid tribute to football legends associated with Rangers, including Christian Chukwu, Emmanuel Okala and Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha, while applauding the team’s determination throughout the season.

Mbah also praised General Manager Amobi Ezeaku for his leadership, saying successful football administration requires many of the same qualities needed for effective governance.

The governor assured Rangers of continued backing, revealing that renovation works at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium would be completed to international standards ahead of the club’s continental campaigns.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to sports development and promised that Enugu would host a memorable 2026 National Sports Festival.

While celebrating the title, Mbah urged the players to remain ambitious and avoid complacency.

“So, brace up, fight on, keep winning and ensure you bring the continental trophy home,” he charged.

Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development Lloyd Ekweremadu described the triumph as another milestone in the state’s growing sports success story.

He highlighted Enugu’s recent performance at the National Para Games, where the state topped the medal table with 55 medals.

Responding, Ezeaku credited the achievement to discipline, preparation and a shared vision among stakeholders.

According to him, Rangers’ success under Mbah has been remarkable, with the club winning two NPFL titles within three years.

“This is credited to the governor’s commitment to sports development, youth empowerment and excellence, helping to restore the club’s competitive edge,” he said.

Ezeaku revealed that competition for the title was intense, with rival clubs reportedly motivated by promises of significant incentives.

“Despite these developments, the club maintained focus and confidence, believing that hard work and excellence would ultimately be rewarded.

“We remained resolute and focused throughout the season. Our confidence came from our belief in the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah and our conviction that sacrifice and excellence would not go unnoticed,” he stated.

He also set an ambitious target for the club, expressing confidence that Rangers could challenge Africa’s top teams and one day win the CAF Champions League.

“Every great achievement begins as a dream. Today, we dream of Rangers defeating Africa’s biggest clubs and bringing the CAF Champions League trophy to Enugu,” he said.

The celebrations began earlier with a trophy parade through Enugu, as players and supporters marked the title success before arriving at Government House for the official reception.

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