Okere bows out as ASEF President after a successful tenure

After three remarkable years at the helm of affairs, Neville Okere has formally handed over leadership of the Association of Ex-Footballers and Friends (ASEF), marking the end of a transformative tenure as President from 2021 to 2024.

In a detailed handover ceremony held in Owerri, Okere expressed gratitude to God, the club’s patrons, Board of Trustees, and all members who stood by the leadership team through a period he described as “marked by unity, growth, and remarkable resilience.”

We give thanks to God Almighty. Throughout our tenure, we recorded no emergencies or fatalities—a testament to divine guidance,” he said.

When Okere’s administration took office, they inherited just ₦2,500 in the club’s bank account alongside the usual official documents, jerseys, and club paraphernalia. Today, ASEF boasts a solid financial base of ₦1,157,054, is debt-free, and has retained a united membership body.

Healing and Unity

Upon assuming office, Okere prioritized reconciliation, reaching out to previously aggrieved members who opposed his emergence. Thanks to the intervention of the Patrons, BOT, and diaspora members, unity was restored, averting a potential club split.

What once seemed like division became a platform for a stronger, united ASEF,” he noted.

Sporting Achievements

Despite security challenges and a harsh economy limiting opportunities for external fixtures, ASEF remained active through the FA’s veterans’ tournament. Under Okere’s leadership, the team reached the semi-finals in the inaugural edition and finished as runners-up in the next.

He hailed the spirited support from key stakeholders including Chief Eshimaragini (ASEF Young Chief), Patron Austin, Barr. Uzoma, and others. The club’s vibrant supporters club and the technical crew led by Chief Charles Nnadi (Tigana) also earned special praise.

Community Recognition and Club Development

ASEF’s visibility soared during this period with Barrister Ifeanyi Dike, a club BOT member, elected as Chairman of the Imo State Football Association. The club also played host to Imo Sports Commission Chairman, Ambassador Eleazar Ogbonna, who donated ₦300,000 to the club.

The administration also organized an award ceremony honoring key contributors such as Hon. Kema Nze and Hon. Nnamdi Ihionu. New BOT members, including Barrister Dike and Pastor Jude Jieme, were inducted—initiatives that collectively boosted the club’s financial standing.

Seamless Transition

In line with the club’s constitution, a properly constituted Electoral Committee ensured a smooth transition. The new President, who served as Vice President in Okere’s administration, was described by the outgoing President as “a worthy successor who helped rebuild the club to its current status.”

Okere concluded with optimism and gratitude:

We return the club in better shape—financially stronger, united, and debt-free. I am confident that the new executive will soar even higher. To God be the glory!”