Paul Okoku was among the first set of Nigerian footballers to represent the country in a FIFA competition U20 World Cup. He won silver for Nigeria at the 1988 AFCON. Just last week he was recognised by FIFA as a FIFA Legend at the ongoing World Cup at an event in America. Kunle Adewale brings his below 10 most exciting moments in his life:

1 Receiving the Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya Scholarship (1979)

One of the earliest defining moments of my life came in 1979 during the final of the Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya Youth Football Competition in Lagos. Our team faced one that included future Nigerian greats such as Stephen Keshi, Henry Nwosu, Franklin Howard, and Emeka James. Following the tournament, Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya publicly awarded me a scholarship in recognition of my performance and potential. That was the first time I truly felt that football could change my life.

2. National Bank Football Club Helping Save My Father’s Sight

No trophy or medal can compare to seeing my father regain his eyesight. As a teenager, while still a student at St. Finbarr’s College, I was also playing football for National Bank Football Club. Around that time, my father’s eyesight began to deteriorate, and my family could not afford the cost of surgery. The emotional burden affected me deeply, and although I did not realise it then, my performances on the field had begun to decline. During a match, Coach Siwoku of Mandilas Football Club noticed that I was not playing to my usual standard. After the game, he spoke with my coach, Dan Ajibode, and suggested that something might be troubling me. Coach Ajibode later spoke with me, and I explained my father’s condition. Without hesitation, he took me to meet the officials of National Bank Football Club at our training ground at Yaba College of Technology as they were there watching us practice. After listening to my situation, the club immediately stepped in. They arranged medical care, provided the necessary documentation, and made it possible for my father to undergo eye surgery. My father’s sight was restored.