- Welcomes NFL champion, Ojomo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria, with its abundance of talent, should be one of the most developed nations in the world.
He pledged to collaborate with exceptional Nigerian athletes like Super Bowl champion Morotoluwa Ojomo to harness their skills for the country’s benefit.
The president made the remarks on Friday when he welcomed Ojomo, a Nigerian-born American Football star, who plays defensive tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles, to the State House in Abuja.
Tinubu praised the athlete’s achievements and the increasing representation of Nigerians in the National Football League (NFL), emphasizing that the country’s vast talent pool should translate into national progress.
He recalled the pride he felt watching Ojomo carry the Nigerian flag after his team’s victory at the Super Bowl, describing it as a moment of immense significance for the nation.
He also commended the efforts of Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, for identifying and celebrating Nigerians excelling globally.
Tinubu acknowledged the structured sports system in the United States that has helped athletes like Ojomo thrive and expressed confidence that Nigeria could leverage its talent for greater success.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to working with Nigerian athletes worldwide, ensuring their contributions lead to national development and increased global recognition.
The President assured Ojomo and other Nigerian sports professionals abroad that their achievements are a source of pride for the nation, promising that the government would continue to support and celebrate their successes.
“With the kind of focus that you have, you can mentor many youths here and develop them. Seeing you brought back memories of that Super Bowl finish as you carried the Nigerian flag. It had a tremendous impact on me and I’m glad you are here.”
“And I’m grateful to Abike Dabiri [who is] searching [for those of you who are] doing very well in the diaspora.
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“What you mentioned about the number of Nigerians in the NFL is not lost on me. I’ve seen the system in America too and to have this kind of representation…we should be the most developed.
“We are the most talented. We should have the most rewards and I am ready to collaborate with people like you. We are proud of so many talents that we have.”
Responding to the athlete’s proposal to establish a talent hub in the country, Tinubu committed to forging stronger ties with Nigerian athletes and professionals from the diaspora.
“It is remarkable to have a talent like you believing in yourself and ready to help others. I went through some political twists and turns too to get to where I am.
“Your perseverance, determination, courage and focus should be admired. If you have any recommendations or pathways on what I can do to make it better or work faster, let me know,” he stated.
He also suggested honouring Ojomo with a national award, commending his dedication to mentoring young Nigerians and advancing the country’s global image.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Ojomo said the plans he shared with the president is to create more opportunities for Nigerian youths.