Whyte Ogbonda has been appointed head coach of Rivers Angels for a second time, returning to the Port Harcourt-based NWFL club after previously leading them to Federation Cup success.
The experienced coach was confirmed in the role on Wednesday. Isaac Thomas Atonbere has been named as his assistant, while Sunday Uduh will serve as goalkeeper trainer.
Ogbonda’s return comes after he apologised to Rivers Angels supporters and Rivers State Commissioner for Sports, Barr. Christopher Green, over the way he left the club during his previous spell.
“First, I want to apologise to the supporters of Rivers Angels and to the Honourable Commissioner for Sports in Rivers State, Barr. Christopher Green, because they were not happy with the way I left the last time,” Ogbonda said.
“I want to tell them that I’m very sorry for the way I left. Now I’m back to the team.”
The coach said he was pleased to return to Rivers State after working with clubs in different parts of the country.
“I’m happy to be back to Rivers Angels. I have travelled across the country, and I’m happy to be back in my state,” he added.
Ogbonda previously guided Rivers Angels, also known as the Jewels of Rivers, to Federation Cup glory during his first spell in charge. He also came close to securing the league title with the club.
He will now begin a second period at the helm, with Atonbere and Uduh joining his coaching team as Rivers Angels prepare for the next phase of their NWFL campaign.
The appointment marks a return to a club where Ogbonda had already established a strong record, although his previous departure had left supporters and the Rivers State Commissioner for Sports unhappy.
Ogbonda’s immediate task will be to build on the achievements of his first tenure and lead Rivers Angels forward with his newly appointed coaching staff.