Ndubuisi Ndah, former head coach of Nigeria National League (NNL) side Edel FC Awka, has shared his overwhelming pride in being the father of Super Eagles defender Olisa Ndah. Speaking exclusively to CompleteSports.com, he expressed his joy at seeing his son follow in his footsteps.
A product of St. Patrick’s College, Asaba, Ndubuisi Ndah had a distinguished playing career. He played for and captained Enugu Rangers International after a brief stint at Premier Breweries FC, Onitsha.
As a centre-back, he also led Nigeria’s U23 Dream Team during the qualifiers for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. However, before the crucial return leg against Kenya—dubbed the “Battle of Mombasa”—Nwankwo Kanu was introduced into the squad, ultimately taking over the captaincy. Nigeria secured a 3-0 victory in that match after a goalless first leg at home, and Kanu went on to lead the team to Olympic gold.
Transitioning into coaching, Ndubuisi guided Collin Edwin FC, Lagos, to the NNL and later coached FC One Rocket before taking charge of Edel FC following the exit of former manager Willy Udube.
During the 2025 NEROS/Anambra FA Cup quarter-final match between Edel FC and Obosi United at Rojenny Stadium, Oba, CompleteSports.com caught up with the experienced tactician. With a smile on his face, he spoke about his career and his son’s rise in football.
“I feel immense joy every time someone calls me Olisa Ndah’s father,” he said. “It’s an honor knowing he represents Nigeria, just like I did. Playing for the U23 Eagles and the Super Eagles was a huge part of my life, and seeing my son continue that tradition fills me with pride.”
While Ndubuisi never played abroad, his son Olisa has taken Nigerian football to an international stage, featuring for clubs in Malta before joining South African giants Orlando Pirates. He has also earned four caps for the Super Eagles.
“As a player, I was a central defender, and Olisa is also playing in that role. It’s safe to say football runs in our blood,” he added with a chuckle.
Reflecting on his transition from player to coach, Ndubuisi noted the challenges that come with his new role.
“As a player, I took instructions. Now, as a coach, I’m the one giving them. It’s a different kind of pressure—handling expectations from fans, club management, and players. But I love it, and I chose this path with passion,” he concluded.