"Dr Orji Uzor Kalu's investment in Enyimba contributed to the growth of football tourism in Abia State & Nigeria. " -Obasi Kalu

Whenever I remember the Enyimba football club I remember Dr Orji Uzor Kalu's love for sports.
He sponsored Enyimba to an enviable height.
That's why he became the pillar of sports in Nigeria, and that also made Enyimba win the cup back-to-back.

Obasi Kalu writes from Ututu

1. Enyimba Football Club, based in Aba, Abia State, Nigeria, is one of the most successful clubs in African football history. They clinched the CAF Champions League in both 2003 and 2004, becoming the first Nigerian club to achieve this feat.

2. The back-to-back CAF Champions League triumphs brought immense pride and international recognition to Enyimba and Nigerian football as a whole. It showcased the club's sheer dedication, talent, and strategic planning.

3. Dr Orji Uzor Kalu, as the Governor of Abia State, recognized and celebrated Enyimba's exceptional achievement by awarding each player an official brand new car. This gesture highlighted his support and appreciation for the team's outstanding performance.

4. The provision of brand-new cars to the players demonstrated Dr Orji Uzor Kalu's commitment to promoting sports and rewarding excellence. It showcased a precedent-setting move, as no other governor in Nigeria had undertaken such a gesture for a sports team before.

5. Enyimba's success under Dr Orji Uzor Kalu's administration encouraged other Nigerian clubs to aspire for greatness in African football competitions. It set a benchmark for excellence and motivated other teams to strive for similar achievements.

6. The boost in Enyimba's profile and reputation attracted investment and sponsorship opportunities for the club. Corporate entities as well as local and international brands recognized the immense potential and marketability of Enyimba, leading to increased financial support and endorsement deals.

7. Enyimba's triumphs under Dr Orji Uzor Kalu's leadership inspired a generation of young footballers in Abia State and Nigeria at large. The club became a symbol of hope and a catalyst for increased interest and participation in sports among the youth.

8. The legacy of Enyimba's back-to-back CAF Champions League victories continues to reverberate in Nigerian football history. It serves as a reminder of the heights Nigerian clubs can reach when supported and adequately empowered, both financially and through infrastructural development.

9. Dr Orji Uzor Kalu's investment in Enyimba contributed to the growth of football tourism in Abia State. Fans from all over Nigeria flocked to watch the team play at their home stadium, the Enyimba International Stadium, resulting in increased revenue for local businesses and economic development in the region.

10. Enyimba's success story also provided a platform for Nigeria to showcase its football talent globally. The players gained recognition and subsequently secured opportunities to play for national teams and clubs abroad, elevating the country's reputation in the international football community.

Overall, the incredible achievements of Enyimba Football Club, coupled with Dr Orji Uzor Kalu's support and provision of brand-new cars to the players, left an indelible mark in Nigerian football history, inspiring excellence and setting a precedent for future success.