Christantus Ejike Uzoenyi, the celebrated MVP of the 2014 African Nations Championship, has been appointed as Academy Director at Enugu Rangers International FC, overseeing the development of the club’s youth teams. The role reflects the club’s renewed emphasis on grassroots growth under the guidance of Enugu State’s governor.

In his new capacity, Uzoenyi former Super Eagles winger and seasoned NPFL, South African, and European league performer will manage age-groups from U‑10 to U‑19. His appointment is central to Rangers’ strategy of building future talent pipelines, while launching a women’s team and expanding scouting initiatives.

Editorial

We welcome the appointment of Ejike Uzoenyi as a vital step in bridging elite experience with youth development. For a club seeking to reassert its identity, placing a former CHAN MVP at the helm of its academy is a statement of intenta commitment to nurture rather than merely recruit.

Uzoenyi offers more than coaching he brings credibility and vision. His performance at CHAN 2014—with three goals, three Man of the Match awards, and the MVP title proved he thrived under pressure. That insight, embedded in character and execution, is exactly what Rangers aim to instill in young players.

We believe this move signals transformation. The club is rebuilding structurally from grassroots to first team—with long-term planning. Supporting academy screening exercises in Enugu, launching women’s programmes, and integrating scouting under youth coaches like Felix Nwosu demonstrates coherence and depth.

Investing in Uzoenyi’s leadership is also a nod to legacy. Rangers long prided themselves on local identity. Here, they merge tradition with professionalism, showing that legends can forcefully shape futures on and off the pitch.

We expect this decision to set standards—not only in Enugu but across Nigerian football. If properly supported, this integration of former stars into development roles could elevate the entire football ecosystem.

Did You Know?

1. Ejike Uzoenyi was awarded Most Valuable Player at the 2014 CHAN in South Africa after scoring three goals and earning three Man of the Match accolades. Nigeria finished third.
   


2. During his playing career, Uzoenyi won the Nigerian Premier League twice (2005, 2007) and the Federation Cup in 2005 with Enyimba FC.
   


3. He played across continents including Enugu Rangers, Rennes (France), Mamelodi Sundowns, Bidvest Wits, and Ajax Cape Town before retiring from the game in 2023.
   


4. In March 2025, Uzoenyi led Rangers’ U‑17 and U‑19 player screening exercises as part of the club's youth talent identification campaign.
   


5. The club's broader 2025/26 strategy includes launching a women’s team, reinforcing media engagement, and seeking sponsorship to become a revenue-sustainable entity under governor-backed revival plans.