Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has been named an ambassador of Enugu State by Governor Peter Mbah.
The announcement was made after a meeting between the football star and the governor at the Lion Building in Enugu on Tuesday.
Okoye, who plays for Italian club Udinese, is currently in Nigeria on break after a long football season. He helped his team finish 12th in the Italian Serie A. The 24-year-old said he was happy to return to his home state and shared plans to start a charitable foundation and build a football academy in Enugu.
Speaking about the visit, Governor Mbah said the state was proud of Okoye’s achievements and commitment to youth development. He said, “Maduka is not just making us proud on the world stage, he’s also ready to give back. I’m proud to appoint him as an ambassador of Enugu State.”
The governor also promised to support the football academy project by providing land. He added, “Our youth are at the centre of our vision for Enugu. With sons like Maduka Okoye, the future looks bright.”
Okoye, while thanking the governor, said he was inspired to help young people in his state. He said, “I’m truly excited to be back home. Enugu is my origin, and I carry it with pride. I want to set up a foundation and an academy to guide and train future stars.”
Mbah also invited Okoye to take part in the next Enugu International Marathon, which will include top runners from around the world.
