Super Eagles and Udinese goalkeeper, Maduka Emilio Okoye, paid a courtesy visit to the Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, as part of his first holiday trip to Nigeria.
The 25-year-old, who was born in Germany but represents Nigeria at the international level, was warmly received at the Lion Building, Enugu Government House. During the visit, Governor Mbah praised the goalkeeper for his achievements in football and described him as a proud son of Enugu.
Governor Mbah took to his official social media page to share the moment and announce Okoye’s appointment as an Ambassador of Enugu State. According to the Governor, the appointment recognises Okoye’s outstanding contributions to sports and his commitment to youth development.
“Today, I had the pleasure of receiving the Super Eagles and Udinese star goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, at the Lion Building,” the Governor wrote.
“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,” Mbah said.
In support of the football academy project, Governor Mbah promised to provide land and invited Okoye to participate in the upcoming edition of the Enugu International Marathon, which is expected to attract elite runners from across the globe.
The Governor added that Okoye’s role as state ambassador will inspire students, especially those in Enugu’s Smart Green Schools, to dream big and pursue excellence.
Maduka Okoye has previously played for Sparta Rotterdam and Watford before joining Udinese in the Italian Serie A. His visit and appointment mark a significant step in promoting youth involvement in sports and development in Enugu State.
