President Bola Tinubu welcomed Moro Ojomo, a Nigerian-born American football player who recently won Super Bowl LIX, to the State House in Abuja on Friday. Ojomo, who is a member of the Philadelphia Eagles, was accompanied by his family, including his father Ololade, mother Bimbo, and sister Modele.
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The 23-year-old athlete, originally from Lagos, Nigeria, returned to the country on Wednesday, having moved to the United States at the age of seven. Ojomo’s visit follows his team’s remarkable victory in the National Football League (NFL) championship, where they triumphed over the Kansas City Chiefs with a score of 40-22.
Upon his arrival in Lagos, Ojomo expressed that his achievements in the NFL are deeply rooted in his Nigerian upbringing and the passion he holds for his home country. He stated, “I have a drive and motivation that stem from my upbringing as a Nigerian, and my passion for this country allows me to excel. Nigeria has helped me succeed on the biggest stage.”
He also discussed the increasing representation of Nigerians in American football and the opportunities that the sport provides. “It is everything when you look at the number of Africans, specifically Nigerians, in American football. The most important thing is giving our youths an opportunity to get into the sport. It is a pathway to education, high school and college degrees, and a means to put Nigeria on the global stage,” he remarked.
Ojomo encouraged young Nigerians to recognize and seize opportunities. He emphasized the importance of belief in oneself, stating, “Just believe you can do anything. I know Nigerians are great, and I believe you should take advantage of opportunities and not let anyone deter you.”
