Maduka Okoye, the renowned goalkeeper for Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Udinese, has been appointed as an ambassador for Enugu State by Governor Peter Mbah. The honor recognizes Okoye’s international football success and his dedication to youth empowerment in his home state.
During a meeting at the Lion Building, Governor Mbah celebrated Okoye’s achievements and discussed collaborative efforts to utilize sports as a catalyst for youth and economic development. “Today, I had the pleasure of receiving the Super Eagles and Udinese star goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, at the Lion Building,” the governor said.
Governor Mbah emphasized Okoye’s commitment to launching a charitable foundation and a football academy in Enugu, stating, “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.”
The governor pledged to provide land for the academy and invited Okoye to join the forthcoming Enugu International Marathon, which will attract top athletes globally.
“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,” Mbah stated.
Okoye, who played every minute of Udinese’s 25 Serie A games last season, responded with gratitude. “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,” he said.
He continued, “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, born to a Nigerian father and German mother in Düsseldorf, has 16 caps for Nigeria and recently returned to the national squad. In the 2024/25 campaign, he achieved four clean sheets and maintained impressive passing statistics.
