Ahudiya Nnem FC Will Soon Rule African Football

Dr Robert Onyeani, a prominent businessman, ardent grassroots football promoter, and philanthropist, has declared an ambitious vision for his Ahudiya Nnem Football Club: to become a dominant force in African football within the next five years.

His assertion comes on the heels of receiving a prestigious Newstap/SWAN Five Star Award, recognising his profound contributions to grassroots football development in Nigeria.

In an exclusive interview, Dr Onyeani, who is the founder and president of both the men’s and women’s teams of Ahudiya Nnem FC, based in Abiriba, Ohafia local government area of Abia State, spoke passionately about his lifelong commitment to sports and youth empowerment.

“My name, as you know, is Dr. (Chief) Robert Onyeani. I am a native of Abiriba… a businessman who has been involved in sports all my life,” he introduced himself, reflecting on the journey that led him to establish the club.

His foray into football was driven by a desire to provide opportunities for talented youths who might otherwise lack support. Despite initial discouragement from friends due to the venture’s capital-intensive and time-consuming nature, Dr Onyeani remained steadfast. “Right now, anytime I look back and see the number of youths, coaches, and backroom staff whose lives I have impacted… I feel fulfilled,” he stated, highlighting the profound personal satisfaction derived from his investment.

The unique name, Ahudiya Nnem, holds deep personal significance. Dr Onyeani revealed it is a tribute to his late mother, a “woman of substance” who endured hardships to ensure her children’s well-being. Naming the club after her serves as a powerful memorial and a testament to her enduring influence.

Ahudiya Nnem FC gained national attention last season by causing a significant upset in the Abia FA Cup finals, defeating football giants Enyimba FC and Abia Warriors.

While acknowledging a subsequent dip in form, Dr Onyeani remains optimistic. “I have discovered where we got it wrong, and the remedy is already being put in place,” he assured, confirming “surgical operations” have been carried out on both teams to revitalise their performance.

Looking ahead, Dr Onyeani envisions Ahudiya Nnem FC not just as a national contender but as a continental powerhouse. “In the next five years, I would like to see the two teams not only dominating the country’s domestic league but the continent,” he proclaimed, confident in the structures and facilities being developed. Indeed, his commitment extends beyond team funding, as he is actively building a state-of-the-art stadium in Abiriba, aiming to complete it by the end of the current year.

The recent Newstap/SWAN award, he confessed, was an unexpected honour. “The award… is a testament that Nigerians appreciate what I am doing in grassroots football development,” he said, viewing it as a challenge to intensify his efforts.

Addressing the broader landscape of Nigerian football, Dr Onyeani lamented the decline, attributing it to the neglect of grassroots development. He advocated the reintroduction of programmes such as the Principals Cup and other youth championships to unearth and nurture talent. He also urged state football associations to implement stricter regulations for football academies to protect aspiring young players from unscrupulous operators.

Despite the inherent challenges, Dr Onyeani expressed no regrets about his involvement in football. “What I am doing gives me joy and satisfaction,” he affirmed, encouraging other well-meaning Nigerians and corporate organisations to invest in football as a potent tool against criminality and youth restiveness. His advice to aspiring footballers is clear: “Be focused, determined, take their training seriously and listen to the advice of their coaches.” Dr Onyeani’s journey with Ahudiya Nnem FC is clearly more than a business venture; it’s a legacy built on passion, remembrance, and a profound commitment to Nigeria’s sporting future.