Pace, flair, killer instincts are all that define Nigerian striker Elijah Ani, the man leading Bugesera FC’s attack in the Primus National League. The Bugesera FC forward has been on fire this season, scoring 13 league goals so far. His tally puts him at the summit of the scoring charts, one goal ahead of APR FC striker Victor Mbaoma. Struggling Bugesera FC are hovering around the relegation zone but Ani has been in his prime form.The formidable centre-forward has his eyes set on not only winning the golden boot in the ongoing 2023/24 season but also rescue his club from relegation. Weekend Sport caught up with Ani as he took us through his life and football journey. Tell us about yourself My name is Ani Elijah, born to Nigerian parents in Abuja on May 31, 1998. I’m originally from Enugu State. ALSO READ: PNL: Five things we learnt from Week 20 action How did your career begin? Well, I started playing football the day I started walking. I was always playing football on the streets of Abuja and it was so much fun. Who was your role model growing up as a footballer? My first role model was Ivorian and Chelsea legend Didier Drogba. I always watched him and admired a lot about his style of play and his qualities. What are some of the teams you played for? I played for a couple of teams in Nigeria. I started the Premier League from 2017 with a team called Wikki Tourist based in Bauchi State. Then I played for Mighty Jets, Warri Wolves for a short period before I moved to Enugu Rangers International where I played for three seasons, before moving to Lobi Stars Football club in Benue State last season. How did you come to Rwanda? Well, it was unexpected, I had other plans but when I came to Rwanda, I decided to stay and I joined Bugesera FC. What is your target for the season? Well, my target is to help the team as much as I can to move to the top and, personally , I want to win the golden boot prize. I have scored 13 goals now and I want to add more. How has it been like playing in Rwanda? Yeah! Playing in Rwanda has been good and a bit tough. I always try to give my best for the team all the time and I hope it’s enough to give them a win. Bugesera are battling relegation despite your goals. What do you think you need to do to survive? You’re right, but we are working so hard to win games and climb on the table. It has not been an easy season for the guys too but we have always decided to work together and put the team back in a good place. Who has been the biggest influence in your football career? My grassroot coach called Paulinus Agada. He always believed so much in me and he encouraged me to do more to get to the top. Have you by any chance received any offers to leave Bugesera FC in the January transfer window? Yes, a host of top teams came after me but we didn’t come to a position to settle so the deal didn’t go through. How do you see the Rwandan Primus National League? The league is growing and there’s a lot of potential players right now so I think, in the near future, Rwanda teams can perform well in the continental competitions. Who is the toughest defender you have come against It is my own teammate Stephen Bonney from Ghana, he is a brilliant centre back. In my point of view, he is the best in the league but he doesn't get the needed recognition. What is the happiest day in your football career? There have been many happy days for me but I know the best is yet to come.
