In a game where heroes were hard to come by, Ekene Awazie rose above the rest, etching his name in the hearts of Enyimba FC faithful with a stellar performance that earned him the prestigious 'Enyimba-NBL Man of the Match Award' in their NPFL Matchday 30 clash against Bayelsa United at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba.

The former FC Ifeanyi Ubah winger, whose form has been red-hot in recent weeks, was the standout performer for the People’s Elephant as they were held to a draw on Sunday. His creativity, tireless work rate, and attacking prowess made him the difference-maker on a night where Enyimba needed inspiration.

Awazie’s brilliance was not a one-off. He carried his momentum from the President Federation Cup Round of 64, where he scored a brace against El-Shama FC of Gombe in Lafia, into the league fixture. That consistency has now propelled his season tally to four NPFL goals, just one behind Enyimba’s current top scorer Joseph Atule, who, coincidentally, was the last recipient of the Enyimba-NBL Man of the Match Award.

The Enyimba-NBL Man of the Match Award, proudly sponsored by Nigerian Breweries Limited (NBL), is part of an ambitious initiative designed to spur the players to greater heights, especially at home. The award serves as an added incentive to push the team to excel, ensuring that the nine-time league champions continue to uphold their dominance in Nigerian football.

Since Kanu Nwankwo took the reins as chairman of Enyimba FC, the club has witnessed a fresh wave of modernization and professionalization aimed at restoring its status as the nation’s biggest football institution. One of the cornerstones of his leadership has been boosting player morale and motivation, and this award exemplifies that vision.

With the team locked in an intense battle for NPFL supremacy, every game—and every moment of brilliance—counts. Ekene Awazie’s latest recognition is not just an individual honor but a testament to the growing competitive spirit within the Enyimba squad. As the season heads into its decisive stages, performances like his will be crucial in the club’s quest for glory.

For Awazie, this award is just the beginning. With his form peaking at the right time, Enyimba fans will be hoping he continues to deliver match-winning performances as the People's Elephant charge towards another historic triumph.