Enyimba’s striker, Emeka Obioma, reflects on his disappointment after not being selected for the Eagles versus Sierra Leone AFCON qualifier, his Golden Boot win in the 2022/23 Nigeria Premier League, and more in an interview with EBENEZER BAJELA.

Q: You emerged as the winner of the Golden Boot for the 2022/23 Nigeria Premier League with 16 goals. Was this something you anticipated at the start of the season?

A: Winning the Golden Boot was a goal I set for myself, and I’m thrilled and fulfilled to have achieved it. Right from the beginning of the season, I had the determination to become the top goalscorer, and I thank God that I was able to accomplish that. I am even more delighted because we also won the league title.

Q: Scoring 16 goals in the NPFL is a remarkable achievement. What is the secret behind your success in finding the back of the net?

A: The secret to my goalscoring success lies in my dedication and hard work. I maintain a strong focus on improving my skills and positioning on the field. Additionally, I have a great support system from my teammates and coaching staff who provide the necessary guidance and motivation. Ultimately, it’s a combination of discipline, determination, and teamwork that has contributed to my goalscoring record.I believe there has been a significant change and improvement in the perception of the league and the quality of players. In the past, there might have been a bias towards overseas-based players in the national team selection. However, with the recent inclusion of four players from the NPFL in the Super Eagles squad, it shows that there is recognition of the talent and potential within the local league.

This change could be attributed to various factors, such as the improved organization of the league, increased exposure through live television broadcasts, and the efforts of coaches like Jose Peseiro who are actively scouting and selecting players from the NPFL. These developments have helped showcase the abilities of home-based players and debunk the notion that the league lacks quality players.

I believe this positive trend will continue, and we will see more opportunities for talented players from the Nigerian Premier League to represent the national team.Indeed, everyone has their own perspective and opinions, and it’s natural for different coaches to have different assessments of players and leagues. While I was disappointed not to receive a call-up for the game against Sierra Leone, I understand that timing and circumstances play a role in national team selections.

I believe that my performance in the NPFL speaks for itself, and I will continue to work hard and showcase my abilities. I remain optimistic that my time will come, and when it does, I will be prepared to seize the opportunity and make a positive impact for the national team.

It’s important to stay focused, maintain a positive mindset, and continue to perform consistently at the club level. With dedication and determination, I believe I can make a strong case for future national team call-ups.Having top forwards like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman in the national team is a great advantage for Nigeria. Their presence doesn’t diminish my belief in my own abilities or my chances of being called up. Scoring 16 goals in the NPFL is a significant achievement, and it demonstrates my potential and contributions to my team.

As for my next destination, I am focused on my current club, Enyimba, and giving my best to help the team succeed. I leave my future in God’s hands, and I trust that He will guide me to the right path and the next step in my football journey.As a professional athlete, it’s important to maintain focus and professionalism both on and off the field. I appreciate the support and admiration of fans, both male and female, but my priority is always on my career and representing my club to the best of my abilities. I remain committed to my craft and strive to make my fans proud through my performances on the pitch.My wife is very supportive and understanding of the demands of my profession. We communicate effectively and make sure to spend quality time together whenever possible. It’s all about maintaining a healthy balance between my career and personal life, and we work together to navigate through the challenges that come with my traveling schedule.