By: Chinedum Ohanusi
The management of Rangers Int’l FC of Enugu, headed by its Chief Executive Officer, and General Manager, Barrister Amobi Ezeaku have in the last one week or so, signed up two audacious partnership deals, aimed at projecting the international outlook of the club, beyond the shores of Nigeria.
The latest move, saw the management of the reigning Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions, sign a partnership deal with Swiss Sivision 2 Football League side, FC Schaffhausen based in the northern part of Switzerland.
A media release after officials of both clubs, signed the relevant documents in Schaffhausen, to ignite the partnership, an elated Barrister Ezeaku could not hide his joy;
“We are proud to announce a groundbreaking collaboration between Rangers International FC and FC Schaffhausen of Switzerland. Facilitated by Bold Base, we are on course to building a legacy of excellence for generations to come,” Ezeaku said.
He also thanked the Chief executive of Enugu State, and Chief financier of the seven-time Nigerian Champions, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for granting the approval for the execution of the bilateral agreement; which will open doors for exchange of ideas, talents and transfer of knowledge that will give players, coaches and other staff opportunities to broaden their knowledge of the beautiful game of football for both sides.
Founded on July 1, 1896 FC Schaffhausen, are presently in the 2nd tier aka “Dieci Challenge League” in Switzerland; and with the agreement signed they have a vista to sign talents from Nigeria, and present such players with a bigger stage or platform, on which the players can further showcase themselves to top European football clubs.
Only last week, the Barrister Amobi Ezeaku led-management team, paid a historical visit to the prestigious Sports and Justice Law Firm, in Cairo, Egypt.
Speaking after the strategic visit, Barrister Amobi said it underscores the commitment of Rangers, as a top Nigerian and African brand, to foster international collaborations, by exploring opportunities within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region.
At the Cairo visit, the discussions centered around the Rangers establishing a stronger presence in the MENA market, by leveraging on the region’s passion for football and its burgeoning sports business landscape.
The conversations included strategies for engaging with MENA-based sponsors, partnerships with regional clubs, and talent scouting to diversify Rangers’ player pool.
The meeting also addressed the growing role of international sports law in facilitating cross-border player transfers and contractual negotiations.
By aligning with top legal professionals in the MENA region, Barrister Ezeaku asserted that Rangers ultimate goal would be to strengthen its compliance framework and navigate the complexities of international football governance.
“This visit is about positioning Rangers as a global brand. The MENA region holds immense potential for football partnerships, and we believe our club’s rich history and dynamic future can resonate deeply here,” said the CEO during the visit.
The Sports and Justice Law Firm expressed keen interest in supporting Rangers’ ambitions, offering expertise in sports legal frameworks and facilitating introductions to key stakeholders in the MENA sports ecosystem.
This visit signifies, and reinforces a pivotal step in Rangers’ journey to becoming a recognized name beyond African borders, enhancing its commercial appeal and footballing excellence.
