The Imo State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, has congratulated Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, on her remarkable achievement of winning the African Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year Award for the second consecutive tiimes.
The award was presented during the CAF Footballer of the Year ceremony held in Morocco on Monday evening. Hon. Onyeocha commended Nnadozie’s consistency and outstanding performances, which continue to bring pride to Imo State and Nigeria.
Reflecting on her achievements, the Commissioner highlighted Nnadozie’s heroic displays during the past Football season, which earned her recognition as one of Africa’s finest athletes.
He recalled her exceptional form that led to an earlier reception by the Governor of Imo State, His Excellency Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, who hosted Nnadozie alongside other Super Falcons players from the state.
Hon. Onyeocha praised the goalkeeper for her dedication and encouraged her to remain resilient despite narrowly missing out on the Women’s Footballer of the Year Award.
Hon. Onyeocha also celebrated Nnadozie’s rise from playing for Heartland Queens to becoming one of the most renowned footballers in Africa and globally.
He lauded the role of Coach Chinedu Iwu, who discovered and nurtured her talent, and urged the goalkeeper to continue striving for excellence. “Your dedication and achievements inspire young athletes across the state and nation. Keep the flag of Imo State and Nigeria flying high,” he said.
In addition to congratulating Nnadozie, the Commissioner extended his felicitations to Ademola Lookman, who became the second Nigerian to win the African Men’s Footballer of the Year Award in a row after Victor Osimhen claimed the award last year. Lookman, a striker for Atalanta in Italy, was recognized for his outstanding contributions to football on the continent. Hon. Onyeocha expressed pride in Nigeria’s rising prominence in international football, attributing the successes to the talent and resilience of the nation’s players.
The Commissioner concluded by reaffirming Governor Hope Uzodimma’s commitment to supporting sports development and nurturing local talents. He called on young athletes to draw inspiration from the achievements of Nnadozie and Lookman, emphasizing that hard work and perseverance are keys to global recognition.
