Heartland FC defender Samuel Agu has expressed unwavering confidence that the Naze Millionaires will retain their place in the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL), insisting the team is determined to avoid relegation—for the pride of Imo State.
Agu, a mid-season acquisition from Akwa United, has been a standout performer since joining the Owerri-based side and was named Player of the Month for April.
His arrival has injected steel into Heartland’s backline, and with the team sitting precariously in 17th place with 45 points from 37 matches, Agu is urging both teammates and fans to dig deep for one final push.
“It’s going to be a tough game,” Agu told SportingLife ahead of the must-win fixture against his former club, Akwa United, this Sunday at the Dan Anyiam Stadium.
“But I believe in this team. The win will mean everything to us, and we’re determined to deliver—for the fans, for the club, and for the people of Imo.”
A win or even a draw in the season finale will be enough for Heartland to stay in Nigeria’s top flight for another season.
The stakes are high, particularly after their 2-0 defeat to Akwa United in the reverse fixture on December 23, 2024, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
On that day, Endurance Ebedebiri’s first-half penalty and Chijioke Alaekwe’s second-half strike sealed the win for the Promise Keepers.
Agu, however, believes the team has grown stronger since that encounter and made a heartfelt appeal to the Heartland faithful.
“I know our recent performances have been disappointing, and the frustration is understandable. But I’m pleading with our fans to keep supporting us.
“We have a crucial game against Akwa United left, and we’re committed to fighting hard to get the result we need to stay in the top flight. That’s a promise.”
With the entire season hanging on one final showdown, all eyes will be on Dan Anyiam Stadium this weekend as Heartland fights to avoid the drop and keep the NPFL dream alive.
