In a move aimed at promoting youth development and celebrating sporting excellence, Governor Peter Mbah has appointed Super Eagles and Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye as an ambassador for Enugu State.
The appointment was made during a meeting at the Lion Building, where Okoye was commended for his international football achievements and his commitment to giving back to his home state. Governor Mbah remarked, “Today, I had the pleasure of receiving the Super Eagles and Udinese star goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, at the Lion Building.”
The governor revealed that Okoye plans to establish a charitable foundation and a football academy in Enugu, saying, “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.”
Governor Mbah also announced that land would be allocated for the academy and extended an invitation to Okoye for the upcoming Enugu International Marathon.
“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,” he said.
Okoye, who featured in every Serie A match for Udinese last season, expressed his appreciation for the honor. “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,” Okoye noted.
He added, “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.”
Born in Düsseldorf, Germany, Okoye has represented Nigeria 16 times and was recently recalled for the Unity Cup and a friendly against Russia. His 2024/25 season statistics include four clean sheets, a 76% pass completion rate, and over 91% accuracy in his own half.