Former Super Eagles forward and current Heartland coach Emmanuel Amunike has lauded Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for his investments in sports development, describing the facilities and infrastructure in the state as impressive and transformative.
Speaking to the Saturday press, Friday ahead of Heartland’s Nigeria National League clash against Gateway FC at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Amunike said he was particularly impressed with the stadium and the city, emphasising the governor’s commitment to fostering football in the state.
“It is an honour for us to be here. For me, it has been a long time. I came here, and I am impressed with what I am seeing, mostly the stadium and also the city. I recognise that aspect from His Excellency, the governor. He has invested a lot, and looking at the state of the stadium, it shows how serious he is and how he wants football in Ogun State to flourish and grow,” he said.
Reflecting on his previous visits to Ogun State, Amunike recalled leading Nigeria’s Under-17 team in 2014.
He noted the stark improvements in sports facilities since then and praised Abiodun for promoting youth engagement through sports festivals.
“Since yesterday (Thursday), when we came all the way from Sagamu to here, I have been impressed with what I have seen, and you cannot afford not to recognise the input of His Excellency.”
“Last time, they held a sports festival here in May, and I am aware of that as well. It is something good for the state and the community. It brings people together and also encourages the younger generation to aspire to represent their state. I am really impressed, and I say a big congratulations to him,” Amunike said.
Amunike also spoke on the calibre of Gateway FC ahead of the encounter, noting the passion for football in Ogun State.
“Gateway is a team that also possesses a lot of pedigree, and we all know, when it comes to football, how passionate the people of Ogun State are. We are here to play our game,” he added.
“It would be very disrespectful on my part to start saying we are going to beat them or not. We respect them, and tomorrow we will be ready to play against them.”
On Heartland’s ambitions this season, the coach stressed the importance of respecting every team in the league and focusing on their own performances.
“Regardless of my past achievements or what I have done, it would be very unfair on my part to disrespect the other teams. We just want to play our game, approach it as it comes, and hopefully, we will be in a position to achieve our objectives,” he concluded.
The Saturday (today) clash sees Gateway FC, who sit last on the table in ninth place with no points after losing both of their opening games, take on Heartland, currently seventh after an opening day loss followed by a 2-1 win against Edel FC.
Heartland, relegated from the NPFL last season, will be looking to assert themselves against Gateway, a team that has struggled in the second tier since 2010.
