Ex-Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has been appointed a national youth ambassador to inspire young Nigerians towards excellence.
Minister of youth and sports development Sunday Dare announced Mikel’s appointment at an event held at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos on Friday.
A statement by Mr Dare’s spokesman John Joshua-Akanji said the minister described the Stoke City midfielder as a “role model whose lasting legacies in football development has continued to have a positive impact on youths in the country.”
Mikel was assured of the Federal Government’s support whenever he chooses to invest in the country, Mr Joshua-Akanji added.
“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 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 Nigerians,” Dare was quoted as saying.
In his response, Mikel expressed delight with his new portfolio and promised to work with the sports ministry to foster youth development in the country.
“I feel highly honoured to be appointed as Youth Ambassador of this country, it is a great feeling. 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,” said Mikel.
After the event, Dare took a tour of the National Stadium which is undergoing rehabilitation. He pointed out that a lot had been put into the rehabilitation as he emphasised on the pitch, scoreboard, tracks and the spectators’ stand.
“A lot has been put in place to ensure that the stadium returns to what it used to be. The seats are no longer in line with FIFA standard, but we have partnered a private organization to have modern seats in place,” he concluded.
The announcement of Mikel’s new role comes days after the former Chelsea player met two state governors.
