After Slump in Form, Gov. Otti Names Deutsch Detchoua Emmanuel as Enyimba Head Coach
Story: written by Joseph January 26,2026
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has approved the appointment of Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel as the new Head Coach of Enyimba International Football Club, Aba, as part of efforts to halt the club’s recent poor performances.
The decision was disclosed on Monday in a statement issued by the Abia State Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu. He noted that Enyimba—widely regarded as Nigeria’s most successful and Africa’s leading club—has fallen short of its historic standards in recent times.
According to the statement, the Otti administration is committed to restoring Enyimba’s dominance through professionalism, financial sustainability and sound corporate governance.
“The appointment of Coach Deutsch Detchoua Gustave Emmanuel forms part of a broader strategy to reset the club’s technical structure, boost competitiveness and build a strong platform for long-term success,” the statement said.
Coach Deutsch Detchoua is described as a seasoned football tactician, holding CAF A, B and C coaching licences. He has previously served as Technical Adviser and Head Coach to top clubs in Nigeria and Cameroon, recording notable achievements along the way. Among his accolades is the Nigeria National League (NNL) Best Coach award in 2025.
Governor Otti expressed optimism that the coach’s experience, technical expertise and professional discipline would play a key role in Enyimba’s rebuilding process.
Enyimba’s struggles have continued in recent weeks, with the club suffering a 2–0 away defeat to Niger Tornados of Minna shortly after a recent technical change, further underlining the urgency of the reset.
