Exclusive: From Relegation Favourites to Title Contenders: Ikorodu City CEO Doherty Discusses NPFL Resurgence

Ikorodu City chairman, Sanmi Doherty, has credited his team’s turnaround in the Nigeria Professional Football League to fostering confidence and maintaining continuity.

Oga Boys appeared headed for relegation after a tough start to the 2024-25 campaign, failing to win any of their first five matches, including four losses, leaving them at the bottom of the table.

In a stunning turnaround, the Lagos-based team has emerged as one of the early title contenders, climbing to third place, just five points behind leaders Rivers United after 15 matches.

Remarkably, they remain unbeaten in their last six league matches, scoring 12 goals in the process. Their most recent result was a commanding 4-1 victory over former champions Akwa United at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

Asked if relegation talks worried his team after a poor start, Doherty told SportsBoom.com: "No, we weren’t scared. We just wanted to play our football. "We have a plan, a methodology, and a philosophy that we truly believe in. Of course, results matter, but the most important thing for us is whether we're doing the right thing.

"If we are, we’ll continue with it. It's just a matter of time—the results will come."

THE TURNING POINT IN OGA BOYS’ REVIVAL

Despite Ikorodu City's distinct style of play, they struggled to achieve positive results, and the challenging situation eventually led to the resignation of Bright Ozebagbe, who had masterminded their promotion from the Nigerian second tier.

Instead of panicking during what seemed like a crisis, Doherty reveals how a shift in mindset, along with the players recognizing their potential, was key to their transformation.

"Honestly, everything changed once we started playing with confidence. At first, the challenge was adjusting to the [NPFL] system. Being new to it, we struggled, even though we had our own unique style of play," he continued.

"I believe experience is another crucial aspect that can't be overlooked. While [my players] initially lacked the experience, I think we managed to figure out a few things along the way.

"We thank God that it didn’t take them long to recognize their own potential and start performing exceptionally well. That has been the key turning point. Now, they are realizing what they are truly capable of.

"I keep reminding them, 'If you realize how talented you are, you'll see that the NPFL isn't anything extraordinary. Just go out there, play your game, and you'll discover that you have what it takes to succeed.'

"During our game against Enyimba, I went into the players' dressing room and said, 'Look at how well you play. You just need to believe in yourselves. There's nothing extraordinary about the NPFL.' Since then, I think they've been performing exceptionally well.

Doherty’s rallying cry to the Ikorodu players following their 2-1 defeat to the Aba Elephants on October 27 appears to have had a positive impact, as the team has not lost a single game since then.

AWERORO’S CHOICE? THE NEED FOR CONTINUITY

Ikorodu City chose not to hire a high-profile coach following Ozebagbe's unceremonious departure, instead placing their trust in Nurudeen Aweroro, who has been a part of the technical crew.

The club’s boss explains the decision to appoint the tactician, despite receiving several applications from "big names." It seems that decision is paying off.

Doherty added: "He's not new to the team; coach Aweroro [Nurudeen] was previously the assistant coach. "Personally, and as a management team, we strongly believe in continuity. We have confidence in what we're building, our philosophy, and the process we're committed to.

"We’re not rushing to achieve anything because this is a long-term project. And as with any project, it takes time to see the results.

"When the former coach decided to leave, we simply carried on with what we already had in place. I did receive many CVs and recommendations for big names, but what we’re doing now is a continuation of what we’ve already established."

UNFAZED BY ‘SCHOOLBOY’ LABEL

Ikorodu City stands out due to its unique mix of youthful energy and strategic continuity. Despite being relatively new to Nigeria's top football division, the club has demonstrated resilience and a clear commitment to long-term growth.

With a young management team, including experienced individuals well-connected to the NPFL, the club prioritizes development and consistency over quick fixes.

"I think it's a mistake to assume that my team of directors lacks experience," he said, defending claims that his directors – who are prominent journalists – lack the expertise to manage football.

"They've been involved in journalism, and alongside that, they've been deeply connected to the NPFL league for a very long time. Take someone like Tobi Adepoju, for instance—he's been following the league for 13 to 15 years. The same goes for Wale Quadri and Pooja [Suleiman Adebayo]. So, what are they talking about?

"People can say whatever they want about us, but it's up to us to prove that we are not what they claim. It's not my responsibility to change how people perceive or believe things about me. My focus is on proving to myself that I am not what you think I am."

Ikorodu will be looking to continue their fairytale run when they face Bayelsa United on Sunday. With 14 points from 13 matches so far, the Yenagoa side will be eager to revive their faltering campaign.

The 2009 league champions have won just one of their last seven matches, a run of form that has put Ladan Bosso's job in jeopardy.