In the heart of Nigeria’s Plateau State, amidst the vibrant energy of secondary school students, a serendipitous encounter blossomed into an extraordinary love story. It all began during a talent hunt, where Emmanuel Gyan, a dedicated long-distance runner and coach, was searching for emerging athletic talent. Little did he know that the talent he discovered, a spirited young girl named Deborah Pam, would not only become a formidable athlete but also the love of his life. Today, they are a thriving couple, blessed with two sons and an adopted daughter, embodying the essence of partnership both on and off the track.
As they navigate the rigours of training and competition, Emmanuel and Deborah exemplify how commitment, resilience, and mutual support can create a fulfilling partnership, even amidst the challenges they face as athletes and parents.
A Shared Passion
In an exclusive interview with LEADERSHIP, the couple opened up about their experiences navigating the complexities of being athletes, partners, and parents. “We still manage to enjoy ourselves as a couple,” Deborah shared. “Despite the love we share, we don’t allow that to affect our lives as professional athletes, especially during training. Emmanuel advises and encourages me in all that I need to do as an athlete. He has been planning my future and my programme as an athlete. No one else can do what he has been doing for me.”
Emmanuel echoed these sentiments, emphasising the delicate balance they maintain between their personal and professional lives. “It has not been easy,” he admitted. “But we have been managing ourselves. Whenever we are in training, we both forget about love because it is about business first before pleasure. We have been managing that well so far.”
Their shared journey began when Emmanuel met Deborah during his talent search in Plateau. “I met her when I went to schools in Plateau State to hunt for long-distance race talents, and luckily, she was one of the talents I found. We have been together since then,” he recounted.
The Power of Endurance
For Emmanuel, having a partner who understands the rigours of athletics has been a source of immense fulfilment. “Athletics gave me a partner, and it has kept us close. We share our problems with each other and advise each other. However, all of this didn’t happen in a day. We have worked towards this for years, and I feel happy that we are doing the same event.”
Deborah concurred, highlighting the advantages of having a partner who is also an athlete. “The advantage is that he is more experienced because he started before me, so he lectures me on what to do, and it works for me. It would have been a totally different experience if I had married someone who isn’t involved in athletics,” she explained.
The Support System
A crucial element in their journey as athletes and parents has been their support system. Deborah expressed gratitude towards her mother-in-law and their adopted daughter for their unwavering assistance. “In terms of training and parenting, I have a mother-in-law who is so accommodating and supportive. Whenever we are going for training, I leave the kids under her care, and she has been very nice to me and her grandchildren. So, I don’t have any challenge in that area. If I’m travelling for a competition, I have our adopted daughter who normally travels with me to look after my child when I’m training and competing.”
Deborah, who recently resumed light training after giving birth to her second child, shared her aspirations to compete at an international level. “My dream is to compete internationally, and I call for government support through the provision of logistics for long training camps. We need support to compete internationally, like in the Olympics and World Championships. Competing internationally requires long training and camp. So, the government should support us and put us in camp for like six months before any major championships,” she urged.
Encouraging Future Generations
As they reflect on their own journeys, the couple considers the future of their children. When asked if they would encourage their children to pursue athletics, Emmanuel was thoughtful. “I won’t force any of my children to choose a sports career, but whoever chooses to be a sports person, I’ll support them. I have no regrets about being an athlete. Sports made me who I am today, and it provides for my family.”
He elaborated on the significance of sports in Nigeria, where job opportunities can be scarce without connections. “Today, in Nigeria, it is not easy to get a job if you don’t have anyone in a position of authority, but sports provided a job for me and my wife. It is through sports that I’m working with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the NSCDC is supporting me in building my career.”
The Challenges of the Sport
Despite their successes, Emmanuel did not shy away from discussing the challenges faced by athletes in Nigeria. “It is frustrating and disheartening when some organisers refuse to redeem winnings after the race. But there is improvement now compared to the past. Some of them have begun to redeem their winning prizes,” he lamented.
Their story is not only one of love and partnership; it is also a reflection of the broader challenges facing athletes in Nigeria. With limited resources and support from governing bodies, the couple remains hopeful for change that will benefit future generations of athletes.
A Legacy of Love and Athletics
As Emmanuel and Deborah continue to carve out their legacy, they embody the spirit of endurance, both in their athletic pursuits and in their relationship. Their story serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that with love, discipline, and support, it is possible to achieve greatness.
Their journey together—marked by shared dreams, mutual support, and a commitment to their family—stands as a powerful reminder of the impact that love can have on one’s life. As they lace up their running shoes and step onto the track, they are not just racing for medals; they are running for each other, for their children, and for a future filled with hope and possibility.
In a world that often seems divided, the story of Emmanuel Gyan and Deborah Pam serves as a reminder of the unifying power of love and sport, underscoring that even in the midst of challenges, there is always room for growth, understanding, and connection.
