Nigeria’s Federal Government led by President Muhammadu Buhari has appointed former Super Eagles skipper, John Obi Mikel as Youth Ambassador to inspire young Nigerians to strive for excellence.
Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr Sunday Dare, who made the disclosure described the former Chelsea star as a role model whose lasting legacies in football development have continued to impact on youths in the country. The Minister promised to support Mikel’s visions for sports development in the country and assured the Stoke City midfielder of Federal Government’s unalloyed support whenever he chooses to invest in the country.
“Time will not permit me to say much about Mikel’s success as a footballer. He is our legend and a role model who has continued to impact the lives of youth positively. It is it my pleasure to appoint you as Nigeria Youth Ambassador. It’s a new portfolio and your role as youth ambassador will be made known to Nigerian,” the Minister asserted.
Meanwhile, the Stoke City midfielder has confirmed and accepted his appointment as Nigeria’s youth ambassador after meeting with the Minister of Youth and Sports Development yesterday. Mikel Obi recently identified with the government in power in when he paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.
Bello is rumoured to be nursing a presidential ambition under the ruling party, All Progressive Congress. A modern-day legend of the game, Mikel Obi, in his new role, will be expected to champion the causes of the youth and inspire them to be better. And reacting to his appointment, the ex-Chelsea ace expressed his delight while promising to wield his influence far and beyond the beautiful game that brought him fame and riches.
“I feel highly honoured to be appointed as Youth Ambassador of this country. It is a great feeling,” the 34-year-old said. I am happy with this partnership, and I promise to do my best to encourage and inspire the youths towards national development, not just in football but in other sports like Basketball, Boxing among others.”
Mikel Obi remained one of the few Nigerians to have won the UEFA Champions League after helping Chelsea claim the prestigious trophy in 2012. A year later, the defensive midfielder sealed his legacy in Nigerian football forever when he inspired the Super Eagles to her third continental triumph at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations tournament hosted by South Africa.
