Farewell to the Wealthiest Youngster, Says Segun Odegbami

Henry Nwosu's memory has been on my mind lately, and I recall the nickname I gave him, 'Youngest Millionaire', which was a testament to his remarkable achievement of becoming the youngest player to earn a million Naira in domestic Nigerian football after the 1980 AFCON.

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Before 1980, no player had ever earned such a substantial amount, and a thousand Naira was considered a significant sum, especially compared to our previous daily allowance of N2:00/N5:00 and match bonus of N60:00.

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Henry Nwosu's talent and dedication earned him a spot in the national team, and he quickly proved himself to be an invaluable asset, with exceptional skills as a midfielder, including powerful shots, great passing abilities, and impressive dribbling skills.

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His acrobatic 'bicycle' kicks were legendary, and he scored many goals with his unique shooting style, which involved doing a somersault in the air while shooting at the opponent's goal.

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Henry's impressive performance as captain of Nigeria's junior team, the Flying Eagles, earned him an invitation to the Green Eagles, and he went on to have a remarkable career, spanning over a decade, with notable contributions to Nigeria's performances at the 1984 and 1988 AFCONS.

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Despite his success on the field, Henry never pursued a professional career in Europe, citing his inability to cope with the cold weather, and instead, focused on his career in Africa, where he had a notable impact on the sport.

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After retiring from football in the early 1990s, Henry went on to become a coach, but unfortunately, he was not as successful in this role, despite being part of the technical consortium that led the Super Eagles to the 2002 World Cup in Korea/Japan.

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Henry's health began to decline a few years ago, and with the help of the Governor of Lagos State, friends, and philanthropic Nigerians, he underwent rehabilitation, but unfortunately, he never fully recovered and passed away on March 14, 2026, after a long battle with a lingering heart condition.

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As Henry Nwosu is laid to rest on June 6, 2026, the football community comes together to bid him a peaceful farewell, and an appeal is made to the Governor of Imo State, Dr. Peter Mbah, and other notable figures to support the organization of a befitting burial for this football legend.

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Meanwhile, I take a moment to appreciate the magnificent MKO Abiola International Sports Arena, which has become a hub for sports and cultural events in Ogun State, and I recall the 'Gateway Games 2024' that took place from May 16 to May 30, 2025, which showcased the potential of the arena and the state.

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The MKO Abiola International Sports Arena has since hosted numerous international sports events, and the governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has redeemed his pledge to reward the participating athletes, changing their lives forever with his generosity.

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As Governor Abiodun prepares to complete his term, I suggest that he consider one final sports project, renovating the Otunba Dipo Dina International Stadium in Ijebu Ode, and creating a new socio-cultural, economic, and sports hub that will add to his legacy in Ogun State.

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I congratulate Prince Adedapo Oluseun Abiodun, MFR, CON, on the first anniversary of the end of the 'Gateway Games 2025', and I wish him continued success in his future endeavors, as he leaves a lasting impact on the sports landscape of Ogun State.