By Roland Ike
Twenty eight years after it was disbanded, there are moves to revive Vasco Da Gama FC of Enugu and bring it back into contention.
The club which was based in Enugu competed in the nation’s football space in the 70s, 80s and 90s and
gave Enugu Rangers International FC unbridled rivalry, to the delight of fans,
before it was disbanded in 1996.
The revival programme kicked off with the unveiling
former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chief Ogbonna Okechukwu Onovo as patron of the club.
The event which took place at Onovo’s residence in Enugu saw the creme of Vasco Da Gama players and officials during its time as P and T Vasco Da Gama and Nitel Vasco Da Gama FC of Enugu.
The Club’s former stars and officials who witnessed the investiture included: Ogbodo John, Ifeanyi Azobu, (Ex Vasco Chairman and Captain) and Diewait Ikpechukwu (Team Manager).
Others were: Coach Innocent Abana, Ifeanyi Mazeli, Okey Nnamani, Uchenna Eze (Obere Agu) Kuba Christian and Oyiih Robert.
The delegation also inaugurated the Vasco Da Gama Youth FC of Nigeria which purpose is to bring Vasco Da Gama back to Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL).
Members of the delegation who spoke in separate interviews, said that the journey to the rebirth of the club had begun and efforts were on top gear to make it a reality.
Diewait Ikpechukwu, Team Manager of the club during its Nitel Vasco Dagama days, said the event was historic because it brought back memories of the good old Vasco days.
“Everyone here had something to do with Vasco Da Gama as a player or as an official.
“I was the Team Manager and we are here to honour someone who contributed greatly to the success recorded by Vasco Da Gama.”
He noted that former IGP Onovo was a mercurial Vasco Da Gama star who played with dedication and finesse to make the club a household name in the country.
“He criss-crossed Nsukka where he schooled and Enugu to play for Vasco and this was a source of inspiration to many.
“Many people have been angling that we immortalise the club and bring it back to life and we are determined to do so,” he said.
Onovo the club’s new patron, welcomed the delegation to his abode and thanked them m for finding him worthy of the honour.
“I promise to support you in any possible way to achieve your aims as this visit affords us the opportunity of sharing good memories of the past.
“This sort of event lifts the spirit, gives one sound sleep and motivates one to offer his best at all times.”
Chinedu Eneje, Chief Executive Officer of Information Outreach Centre and TourBiz Nigeria Forum, who witnessed the event, commended the delegation for the initiative and described it as apt.
“This initiative will re-awaken the memory football fans to the indelible footprints of Vasco Da Gama FC.
“Vasco Da Gama was a household name in Enugu and across the country and efforts to give it the much needed rebirth should be supported by all.”
The club gave Enugu Rangers International FC unbridled rivalry, to the delight of fans.
