Ex-Nigerian International Footballer Calls For More Investments In Sports

Former Nigerian international footballer Maurice Michael Udobia has called for increased investments in sports facilities and equipment in Nigeria, stressing that such investments are crucial for the country’s success in various sporting activities.

Currently in Nigeria for a short vacation, Udobia highlighted that nations excelling in sports have achieved such success by focusing on the provision of quality sports infrastructure, athlete welfare, and investment in modern equipment.

During his playing days, Udobia represented clubs like Sharks Football Club of Port Harcourt, Calabar Rovers, Stationary Stores, and Bendel United before moving to Spain to play professionally. He emphasized that Nigerian athletes are excelling globally, but the country needs to replicate that success domestically by improving its sports infrastructure.

Reflecting on a recent match between Rivers United FC and Kwara United, Udobia commended the game’s quality but pointed out that the stadium required significant upgrades to meet international standards. He also called for better remuneration for Nigerian athletes, stating that they deserve the necessary encouragement to excel in their sports.

“We have our people doing well all over the world and we can replicate the same success in Nigeria,” he said, stressing that with the right environment and facilities, the country can make significant strides in sports.

Udobia, who also had stints with AD Campiyo in Spain’s 3rd division, Albacete Bolompio in the 1st division, and San Jose Oaks in the United States, went on to pursue higher education after his football career. He obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from St. Mary’s College and a Master’s degree in Educational Counseling from National University.

Currently, Udobia works at Jesse Bethel High School in the United States, where he commended the school’s principal, Mr. Khehinde Stevenson, for his outstanding work. Udobia also shared the story behind Stevenson’s Yoruba name despite not being Nigerian. Stevenson’s mother, who had a close friendship with a Nigerian woman, decided to give her child a Nigerian name as a tribute to the country she admired, naming him Kehinde, while his twin brother was named Taiwo.