From Glory Days to Hard Lessons: Promise James Reflects on Career, Regrets and Hope for a Comeback

Former Kano Pillars FC, Enyimba FC and El‑Kanemi Warriors FC defender, Promise James, has opened up on the defining moments of his football journey, the choices he regrets, and his determination to rebuild his life despite present challenges.. James disclose this during his interview with Emmanuel Adoyi.

James, who also featured for Abia Warriors FC as a right-back during his professional career, recalled the humble and almost accidental circumstances that led to his breakthrough with Kano Pillars.

According to the former defender, his big opportunity came during a casual outing to Kaduna for a friendly match with friends. At the time, financial difficulties meant he had to borrow a small amount of money from his mother just to fuel his car for the trip. However, that decision would eventually change the trajectory of his career.

"I went to play a friendly match with my friends in Kaduna. I even had to collect ₦700 from my mother to fuel my car because I didn't have money. After the game, Coach Babaganaru and some Pillars officials called me. We had a little discussion and they gave me ₦100,000. We negotiated and they promised to make my life better if I joined them and they did."

The defender described the moment as the turning point that launched him into professional football, eventually leading to spells with some of Nigeria's notable clubs.

Despite those achievements, James admitted that certain personal decisions during his playing days remain a source of regret.

Reflecting on the influence of people around him at the time, he believes better guidance could have helped him make wiser choices.

"I wish I had good friends that would have advised me back then, because most of my friends then just wanted flexing."

Now navigating a difficult phase after his playing years, the former defender lamented that many of the relationships he built during his active career have not translated into meaningful support."Not that my friends don't call me now, but all they call me for is 'Hi Promise, let's go and drink,' not to help me in something that can better my life and that of my family."

James also reflected on the generosity he showed during his active years, explaining that he supported many people financially, particularly in their education. However, he expressed disappointment that the same support has not been reciprocated during his own period of need.

"I paid school fees, WAEC and NECO for a lot of people when I was active, but no one is helping me now to train my children."

Nevertheless, the former defender insists that his story is far from over. He remains hopeful about rebuilding his life and even believes a return to football could still be possible if he receives the right medical support.

"I can still play football, but I need to undergo rehabilitation first, and then I am very sure that my life will be better than what it is now."