Former Governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu, has congratulated Rangers International Football Club of Enugu for winning the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title.
Kalu urged the club to target continental glory in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Champions League.
The senator, who is popularly known as the African Pillar of Sports, conveyed this in a statement on Sunday in Abakaliki.
He described Rangers’ league triumph as a remarkable achievement driven by hard work, discipline, resilience and effective leadership.
He extended his congratulations to the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, the club’s management, coaching crew, players and supporters for what he described as bringing honour and glory to Enugu State.
“This remarkable achievement is a testament to hard work, discipline, resilience and effective leadership.
“I extend my warm congratulations to the Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Peter Mbah, the management, coaching crew, players and the passionate supporters of Rangers for bringing glory to the Coal City State.”
Kalu noted that Rangers, as one of Nigeria’s most historic football clubs, had once again demonstrated that vision, commitment and adequate support remained critical ingredients for success in football.
According to him, the club’s latest achievement should serve as motivation to pursue greater accomplishments on the continental stage.
“I encourage Rangers to emulate the great Enyimba team of 2003 and 2004 by setting their sights on conquering Africa through the CAF Champions League next season.
“Nigerian clubs must once again reclaim their rightful place on the continental stage,” he said.
The former governor recalled his administration’s support for Enyimba Football Club, which he said resulted in unprecedented successes, including six league titles in eight years, two CAF Champions League crowns, the CAF Super Cup and the FA Cup.
“As governor of Abia, I was privileged to support Enyimba Football Club to unprecedented success.
“Those achievements proved that Nigerian clubs can compete with and defeat the very best teams in Africa,” Kalu stated.
The senator reaffirmed his commitment to the development of sports in Nigeria and across Africa, stressing that clubs should aspire not only to domestic success but also to continental dominance.
He said such achievements would enhance the country’s football reputation, create opportunities for young talents and strengthen national pride.
“I have no doubt that Rangers possess the talent, history and support required to fly the Nigerian flag proudly in continental competitions.
“The journey does not end with winning the league title; the next challenge is bringing the CAF Champions League trophy back to Nigeria,” Kalu added.
He wished the club success in its future campaigns and urged the players and officials to keep the flag flying.
