Obiekwu Eyes Clean Sweep as Ingas FC Chase NLO Promotion

Former Super Eagles defender Kingsley Obiekwu has set his sights on leading Ingas FC to a flawless finish in the 2025 Nationwide League One (NLO) playoffs, as his side battles for a spot in the Nigeria National League. Speaking after a crucial 2-0 win over Ekomzy Classics FC at the Awka City Stadium, Obiekwu expressed confidence in his team’s momentum and readiness to win their remaining fixtures.

After a narrow 2-1 defeat to Ikukuoma FC in their opening match, Ingas FC bounced back in style with two early goals in the first half that secured their first win in the playoffs. Obiekwu, popularly known as ‘Shagari’, praised the team’s renewed confidence and composure in maintaining control for the entire 90 minutes.

Now 50, the former international who played for clubs across Nigeria, the UAE, the Netherlands, and Egypt, believes his team has regained the spirit required to push for qualification. A win in all remaining matches could see Ingas FC promoted to the Nigeria National League via the zonal knockout format, featuring playoff centres in Jos and Owerri.

In other playoff results, Giant Brillas outclassed Dom Daniels 5-2 in a thrilling encounter, while Onwubiko International Soccer Academy claimed a commanding 3-0 win over Kun Khalifat.

Editorial

We admire Kingsley Obiekwu’s relentless drive not just in his playing days, but also now in his coaching journey with Ingas FC. The ambition he displays, targeting a perfect run in the playoffs, is the kind of bold thinking that transforms lower-tier clubs into competitive forces in Nigerian football.

These playoffs are more than a formality they are a crucible. Promotion from the Nationwide League One to the Nigeria National League is a step many clubs aspire to, but few truly prepare for. Obiekwu’s clarity of purpose, especially after an opening setback, shows a managerial maturity that is increasingly rare in grassroots football.

What makes this moment significant is the example it sets. Ingas FC, under Obiekwu’s guidance, represents more than tactical drills and matchday routines. It’s a story of leadership, of channelling experience into development, and of believing that setbacks are temporary roadblocks, not dead ends.

We believe that with structured guidance and unwavering ambition, clubs like Ingas can form the spine of a revitalised domestic league. It’s coaches like Obiekwu, those who blend past glory with present focus, who will lead this evolution.

Let’s not underestimate what a successful campaign could mean. For Ingas FC, it would mark the beginning of something bigger. And for Nigerian football, it’s a strong reminder that real growth begins at the grassroots with bold dreams, hard work, and leaders who refuse to settle.

Did You Know?

1. Kingsley Obiekwu famously helped Nigeria defeat Brazil in the semi-finals of the 1996 Olympics en route to the gold medal.
2. The Nationwide League One (NLO) is Nigeria’s third-tier league and includes over 100 teams competing in zonal formats.
3. Go Ahead Eagles, one of Obiekwu’s former clubs, is one of the oldest football clubs in the Netherlands, founded in 1902.
4. The Awka City Stadium, currently hosting NLO matches, was completed in 2022 and has become a hub for football development in Anambra State.
5. Many former Nigerian internationals, like Obiekwu, have turned to coaching as a way of nurturing future talents and strengthening local leagues.