How did winning the WAFCON 2024 impact your life socially and professionally?
It feels great to win our tenth title because we went through a lot, both individually and as a team. Several players were returning from injuries, including me. I could have been at the 2022 tournament, but I tore my ACL. Coming into the 2024 tournament, I did not place huge expectations on myself, although I knew there were high expectations for the team. I was happy for myself and the team that we won the tournament and brought the trophy home. More Nigerians know me now. When I go to places, people recognise me. It is always love. I appreciate the little things, and the reception is always loving.
What has been the most rewarding part of that WAFCON 2024 success for you and your team?
It is an honour to be recognised and to have helped the team. Collectively, it is Nigeria remaining number one in Africa. Some people disregard that, but it is a huge achievement. We have been number one for several years. Individually, it is being recognised by people who tell me they know me from the WAFCON.
What did your CAF Awards nomination mean to you, and did it motivate you ahead of this year’s edition?
