Former Green Eagles captain, Segun Odegbami, has advocated greater involvement of retired footballers in the administration and development of Nigerian football.
Odegbami made the call ahead of a novelty match scheduled for Saturday in Imo State, where he will feature alongside other former Super Eagles stars.
He spoke on Friday at Ogbor Uvuru in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area during a ceremony marking the conferment of a chieftaincy title on Imo-born businessman and philanthropist, Chief Success Akagburuonye. The event was part of activities celebrating the real estate mogul’s 60th birthday.
According to Odegbami, popularly known as “Mathematical,” former Super Eagles players possess valuable first-hand experience that can significantly improve the management and performance of Nigeria’s national teams. He argued that retired internationals have the knowledge and insight required to transform football in the country into what he described as a “goldmine.”
“The first proper decade of Nigerian football went through fire and brimstone, with limited resources, facilities, and many challenges,” he said. “But today, with football academies and modern facilities, our nation’s football now demands first-hand experience, hence the need to involve former players.”
He lamented that the current system does not provide sufficient opportunities for ex-players to transition into football administration, despite Nigeria having produced many gifted footballers over the years.
Speaking about the novelty match, Odegbami said he and other retired players were in Mbaise to take on the alma mater of Akagburuonye’s secondary school friends in what he described as a friendly but competitive encounter.
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“Yes, I’m 73 years old, but I can assure you that I and other former Super Eagles stars will wallop Akagburuonye’s friends,” he said jokingly. “You will see walking football. We will not be running; it’s not weakness but a deliberate plan to humble them. Once an Eagle, you’re always one. Just come early, and you will be wowed.”
He disclosed that former internationals such as Daniel Amokachi and Samson Siasia were already in Imo State for the event, with about 15 more ex-players expected to participate.
The novelty match, coordinated by Odegbami, is aimed at promoting sportsmanship, strengthening camaraderie, and raising funds for community projects in Ogbor Uvuru, Aboh Mbaise.
He urged residents of Imo State to turn out in large numbers to support the retired stars and celebrate the spirit of Nigerian football.
