Chief Emmanuel Amuneke
The former African Player of the Year has been made a chief in his home town following his exploits for the country
Ex-international, Emmanuel Amuneke, has been conferred with a chieftaincy title in Eziokele Community in Owerri West Local Government Area, Imo State.
The honour was bestowed on him on Tuesday, December 27 as part of events celebrating the sixth anniversary of the community’s creation, as well as the sixth anniversary of the coronation of His Royal Highness, Eze Osuji, Eze Udo 1 of Eziokele Community.
Amuneke was conferred with the title of Aka Welitere Mba 1 (the hand that promotes the community) by the King.
“Our community could not have been heard of and known outside this area if not through Amuneke,” said Eze Osuji.
“Through his football career, Amuneke lifted the name of our community. He also ensured that other youths from this area followed suit and earned their living without resorting to vices.”
Also honoured were Amuneke’s father and Emeka Amajiriaku, founder of ASJ Academy which produced the likes of Chidiebere Nwakali, Kelechi Nwakali and Chukwudi Agor.
Aside from winning the 1994 African Player of the Year Award, having helped the country win the Africa Cup of Nations and participating in the 1994 Fifa World Cup, USA – the 46-year-old led the Golden Eaglets to win the 2015 Fifa U17 World Cup in Chile.
