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Recognition of Nigerian Sports Legends
The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON), has expressed admiration for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s consistent efforts to honor the nation’s sports heroes, both those who are still with us and those who have passed away. This sentiment was shared during the Night of Tributes event, which took place at the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs in Lagos.
Gusau praised Tinubu for his determination to shift the long-standing tradition of overlooking athletes who have brought pride to the country. “Mr. President has taken the bull by the horn to abolish the era when the nation’s sports heroes laboured in vain. Their sweat is now well-rewarded as deserved,” he stated, highlighting the recognition given to the Super Eagles and Super Falcons for their recent international successes.
“Their contributions deserve all the recognition, appreciation, and celebration that we can offer them, whether they are alive or deceased. That is the culture we should foster and nurture.”
The Night of Tributes, organized by Air Peace chairman Allen Onyema and former international player Segun Odegbami, paid tribute to several late Nigerian sports legends, including Christian Chukwu, Peter Rufai, Charles Bassey, Moses Effiong, and Obisia Nwakpa. The event served as a platform to acknowledge the impact these individuals had on Nigerian football.
“Many people talk about the neglect of our sporting heroes, but we can see that President Tinubu is changing the narrative,” Gusau added, through a speech delivered by NFF Executive Committee Member, Chief George Aluo. He emphasized that the contributions of these legends would never be forgotten.
Land Gifts for Star Players
In another significant development, Jedo Investment Company Ltd presented plots of land in Abuja’s Ushafa district to two prominent Nigerian athletes: Super Falcons’ goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie and Africa Player of the Year Ademola Lookman.
The company commended Nnadozie, who is also the reigning Africa Goalkeeper of the Year, for her outstanding performance. They noted that her efforts serve as a shining example of dedication and excellence. For Lookman, the company recognized his achievement as a testament to hard work, discipline, and an unyielding commitment to excellence.
Nnadozie, who retained her title as Africa Goalkeeper of the Year in 2023, was selected as the Best Goalkeeper at the 13th Women AFCON. She has also enjoyed a remarkable three-year stint at the club level in Europe. Both players have been offered the role of Brand Ambassador for Jedo Investment Company.
A Growing Culture of Appreciation
This gesture from Jedo Investment Company highlights the growing trend of recognizing and rewarding top athletes in Nigeria. It reflects a broader shift in how the nation values its sports figures, moving away from past practices of neglect and towards a more appreciative and supportive environment.
The continued support from both government leaders and private organizations signals a positive change in the treatment of Nigerian athletes. As more attention is given to their achievements, it is hoped that this will inspire future generations to pursue excellence in sports and contribute to the nation’s legacy on the global stage.
