Super Eagles goalkeeper and Udinese star, Maduka Okoye, has been appointed an ambassador of Enugu State by Governor Peter Mbah in recognition of his achievements in international football and his plans to invest in youth development.
The 25-year-old shot-stopper was hosted by the governor at the Lion Building on Tuesday, where the two discussed strategic ways to harness sports for youth empowerment and to support Enugu’s broader economic goals.
“Today, I had the pleasure of receiving the Super Eagles and Udinese star goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, at the Lion Building,” Mbah announced.
“A true son of Enugu, Maduka is not just making us proud on the global stage; he is also poised to give back.”
Okoye shared his plans to launch a charitable foundation and establish a football academy in Enugu aimed at inspiring and training young talents. In support, Governor Mbah pledged land for the proposed facility and invited Okoye to participate in the upcoming Enugu International Marathon.
“In recognition of his achievements and commitment, I’m proud to appoint him as an ambassador of Enugu State,” Mbah added.
“He will serve as a role model to our children, especially those in our Smart Green Schools.”
Okoye, visibly moved by the honour, described the occasion as a “special homecoming.”
“I feel delighted to be welcomed home by the governor of Enugu State, His Excellency Dr Peter Mbah. It was indeed a great and memorable moment we shared together, all in the interest of economic and sporting progress for the state and beyond,” he said.
Born in Düsseldorf to a Nigerian father and a German mother, Okoye has earned 16 caps for Nigeria and was recently recalled to the national team for the Unity Cup and a friendly against Russia.
In the 2024/25 Serie A season, he featured in all 25 of his appearances for Udinese, keeping four clean sheets and maintaining strong distribution statistics, including a 76% pass completion rate and over 91% accuracy in his own half.
Governor Mbah noted, “At the heart of our vision is the youth their talent, passion, and future. And with proud sons like Maduka Okoye, Enugu is truly rising.”
