Ex-Nigeria Football Internationals Pays Courtesy Visit To Mayor Okeowo, Seeks Stronger Grassroots Football Collaboration
By Akeem Busari
The spirit of football and community development came alive in Ifelodun as members of the Lagos Legends Club, a revered platform of former Nigerian internationals, paid a courtesy visit to one of their own, who was the Captain of James Kilpatrick FC, before he proceeded abroad, the Executive Chairman of Ifelodun LCDA, Mayor (Dr).Olufemi Akanbi Okeowo.
The delegation, a constellation of football greats, amongst them are those who once donned the green and white with pride, included Friday Elahor, Mba Agbai, Friday Ekpo, Jide Oloyede, Nieketien Peter, Benson Edema, Taiwo Oloyede, Monday Kanu, Wasiu Ipaye, Fatai Amoo (popularly known as “Lagos Pele”), Waidi Akanni, and Bolaji Idowu.
Speaking on behalf of the legends, Waidi Akanni, in a statement signed by the chairman’s spokesperson,Kamaldeen Abdusalam, formally introduced the delegation, describing the visit as a homecoming of champions, united by shared history and a common passion for the development of grassroots football.
Monday Kanu, in his remarks, highlighted the club’s vision and ongoing programmes.
He emphasised that while not all ex-internationals may transition into coaching roles, they remain deeply committed to nurturing the next generation.
According to him, the legends are prepared to provide technical support and mentorship to train Under-13 players within Ajegunle and its environs.
In a significant gesture, he announced plans to donate a trophy in the Mayor’s name, a grassroots competition to be played in Ajegunle, aimed at discovering and developing budding talents in the community.
The delegation expressed profound appreciation to Dr. Okeowo for his consistent support toward ex-internationals and grassroots sports initiatives.
They offered prayers for divine strength, wisdom, and sound health for the Chairman as he continues to serve the people of Ifelodun LCDA.
In his response, Mayor Dr. Okeowo delivered an emotional yet inspiring reflection on his personal health journey.
He recounted the serious health challenges he faced shortly after receiving his Certificate of Return from INEC, including a period of coma and subsequent surgery.
The Mayor stated that he believes God restored his health for a greater purpose, to serve the people more diligently and compassionately.
Drawing parallels with similar health struggles experienced by many ex-internationals, he stressed the urgent need to address welfare and healthcare challenges confronting retired sports heroes.
On the issue of welfare support, Monday Kanu advocated for structured assistance from the Lagos State Government.
The Chairman responded optimistically, noting that such support is achievable.
He cited Ifelodun LCDA under his administration as a working example, where over 1,500 residents benefit from health support initiatives, and petty traders receive ₦100,000 monthly assistance.
Kanu further suggested that the welfare of ex-internationals could also receive support through collaborative efforts by Conference 57 Chairmen across Lagos State.
Mayor Okeowo encouraged the legends to align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the nation moves toward 2027, emphasising the importance of unity, collective responsibility, and strategic engagement in advancing sports development and social welfare.
The meeting, marked by camaraderie, shared memories, and renewed commitment to community service, concluded on a solemn note with closing prayers offered by Peter Nieketien and Fatai Amoo.
Indeed, just as they once battled fiercely on the pitch for national glory, these legends have once again, demonstrated that the game does not end at retirement, it simply moves to a new field of impact: mentorship, welfare advocacy, and grassroots development.
