Former Super Eagles captain and coach Stephen Keshi is set to be immortalised as the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) prepares to induct him into its Sports Diplomacy Wall of Fame in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Nigerian football and sports diplomacy.
The announcement was made by former Super Eagles captain Segun Odegbami during a memorial lecture held in honour of the late football legend in Lagos.
The Sports Diplomacy Wall of Fame was established by the NIIA to celebrate Nigerians whose achievements in sports have enhanced the country’s international image and diplomatic influence.
Keshi will be formally inducted into the monument during a ceremony scheduled for July 28. The date also marks the 10th anniversary of his burial, while the monument itself was unveiled three years ago at the NIIA headquarters in Lagos.
Odegbami, who spoke at the event, said Keshi’s inclusion followed a thorough review of his contributions to Nigerian and African football.
“The existing list will now be extended to include the name of former Nigerian Green Eagles captain and national team coach, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi. He has been considered worthy, and his contributions identified, justified and approved by the NIIA,” he said.
He further highlighted Keshi’s achievements both as a player and coach, noting his role in nurturing talents and helping African players transition into professional football in Europe.
“Stephen Keshi played and captained the Nigerian national football team. He also coached and managed the national team of Nigeria to an African Cup victory, qualified and took another African national team, Togo, to the FIFA World Cup, personally opened the way and assisted a whole generation of Nigerian and other African football players in the transition to professional ranks in Europe,” Odegbami added.
