Enugu gov appoints Super Eagles’ goalie Okoye as state ambassador

Enugu gov appoints Super Eagles’ goalie Okoye as state ambassador

Super Eagles goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, has been appointed an ambassador of Enugu State by Governor Peter Mbah.

The appointment was in recognition of his achievements in international football and his plans to invest in youth development in the region, PUNCH Online reports.

Okoye was received by Mbah at the Lion Building on Tuesday, where both men discussed ways to use sports to empower the youth and promote the economic aspirations of Enugu.

“Today, I had the pleasure of receiving the Super Eagles and Udinese star goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, at the Lion Building.

A true son of Enugu, Maduka is not just making us proud on the national and global stage; he is also poised to give back.

“He shared his vision to launch a charitable foundation and establish a football academy right here in Enugu, to inspire young talents, nurture future stars, and touch lives,” Mbah said.

The governor also announced that land would be made available for the proposed academy and extended an invitation to Okoye to take part in the next Enugu International Marathon, which is expected to feature elite runners from around the world.

In recognition of his achievements and commitment, I’m proud to appoint him as an ambassador of Enugu State.

“He will serve as a role model to our children, especially those in our Smart Green Schools, and inspire a new generation of dreamers and achievers.

At the heart of our vision is the youth, their talent, passion, and future. And with proud sons like Maduka Okoye, Enugu is truly rising,” he concluded.

Okoye, who made 25 Serie A appearances for Udinese this past season, helping them to a 12th-place finish, was visibly moved by the reception and the honour bestowed on him.

Reflecting on the honour, the 25-year-old said it was a special homecoming.

“I feel delighted to be welcomed home by the governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Dr Peter Mbah.

“It was indeed a great and memorable moment we shared together, all in the interest of economic and sporting progress for the state and beyond.

“I want to sincerely commend the governor for all the beautiful things he is doing for our state. Thank you for your time, your hospitality, and for appointing me as an ambassador of Enugu State,” Okoye said.

Born in Düsseldorf, Germany, to an Igbo Nigerian father and a German mother, Okoye has been capped 16 times for Nigeria. He was recalled to the national team by Eric Chelle after six months out, for the Unity Cup in London and an international friendly against Russia, featuring only in the latter fixture in Moscow.

In the 2024/25 season, he played every minute of his 25 league matches, kept four clean sheets, and averaged 7.3 ball recoveries per game. Despite one error leading to a goal, his overall distribution and command of the box remained solid, completing 76 per cent of his passes and recording over 91 per cent accuracy in his own half.