Former Nigerian football star, Daniel Amokachi, delivered a powerful message to young athletes at the CAF Kick and Learn programme, urging them to prioritise education alongside their football aspirations.
Drawing from his own experience, Amokachi stressed the importance of having a backup plan beyond the fleeting years of professional football.
“I kicked my last professional ball at 27, and it wasn’t planned. If I hadn’t had some education, I would have been doomed,” he declared.
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He highlighted the diverse career opportunities education opened for him, stating, “With my education, I can work with FIFA and CAF, do media and broadcasting – that shows the value education offers.”
Amokachi’s message resonates with a growing trend of African football stars embracing education. The programme itself, held at Lycée Classique de Cocody in Abidjan, featured other legendary figures like Salomon Kalou, further showcasing this shift.
His words come as the era of players being exploited by agents due to a lack of education fades away. Recent examples include former goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama receiving an honorary doctorate and numerous active players pursuing degrees.
Amokachi joins the likes of Segun Odegbami, Judge Adokiye Amiesimaka, Sunday Oliseh, and Seyi Olofinjana, representing past generations of Nigerian footballers who valued education.
Today, players like Wilfred Ndidi, Taiwo Awoniyi, and even Kelechi Iheanacho are following suit, showcasing a shift towards a more well-rounded approach to football careers.