Former Super Eagles legends, Godwin Odiye and Paul Okoku, have reaffirmed their commitment to education and sports by making a remarkable donation of sports equipment and a monetary scholarship to St. Finbarr’s College, Akoka, Lagos.
This inspiring gesture was displayed during the school’s 60th inter-house sports competition, held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the school’s premises in Akoka.
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At the colourful St Finbarr’s College 60th Inter-house sports competition, where the sports equipment donated by Okoku and Odiye were presented to a packed cheering crowd in the school ‘s sports complex, the school authority, parents, students, well wishers and disguised former students of the illustrious secondary, spoke glowingly of the humanitarian efforts of the US-based former students .
The distinguished alumni, renowned for their contributions to Nigerian football, donated high-quality sports equipment, including Adidas jerseys, football boots, branded tracksuits, shin guards, hoses, and goalkeeper gloves. Furthermore, they bolstered the school’s scholarship program through the St. Finbarr’s Old Boys Association, offering deserving students opportunities to excel academically.
Representing the two legends, Friday Okoku presented the donations to the school administrator, Rev. Father Babalola Emmanuel, who expressed heartfelt gratitude.
“We are grateful for this great act of kindness and pray that you will continue to experience God’s goodness,” he said.
Patrick Doyle, President of the St. Finbarr’s Old Boys Association and a celebrated actor, commended the football icons for their contributions.
“Paul Okoku, vice-captain of the 1983 Flying Eagles, the first Nigerian team to compete in a FIFA-organized competition and Godwin Odiye, one of Africa’s greatest defenders, have shown exceptional gratitude for what this school has given them. Their actions inspire us all,” Doyle remarked.
Doyle said the donated equipment will be used by the school’s football team at the upcoming Heritage Cup.
Doyle encouraged the audience of parents, staff, and students to honor the legacy of Okoku and Odiye, emphasizing how their generosity reflects the enduring impact of St. Finbarr’s on its alumni.
Mr. Biyibi Victor, the school’s Head Teacher, highlighted the profound significance of this contribution.
“This donation will motivate our students and reinforce our rich sports heritage. Okoku and Odiye have set a shining example of giving back to their alma mater. Their actions inspire students to balance sports and academics, in line with the vision of our founder, Rev. Father Slattery,” he said.
The contributions of Odiye and Okoku resonate with St. Finbarr’s ongoing modernization efforts, which include the construction of state-of-the-art buildings, the renovation of existing structures, advanced hostels, science labs, and innovative technology programs. These efforts solidify the school’s position as a beacon of excellence in academics and sports.
“Odiye and Okoku’s unwavering dedication to their alma mater reflects their deep gratitude and belief in its bright future. Their legacy of selflessness and service serves as an enduring inspiration for current and future generations, ensuring St. Finbarr’s College continues to thrive as a model institution”.
The school head teacher added that, “these distinguished alumni epitomize the harmonious blend of sports and academics, having used their soccer talents as a springboard for academic success and professional achievements. Both men are university graduates who have gone on to excel as corporate professionals in Fortune 500 companies in the United States, exemplifying the power of determination and balance”.
One of the parents who witnessed the donation of the sports equipment in the course of the Inter-house sports competition of St. Finbarrs said, “the extraordinary achievements of Odiye and Okoku reflect not only their exceptional talent and academic prowess but also their unwavering dedication to the development of Nigerian football. Together, they have established a lasting legacy of excellence, inspiring future generations to pursue greatness both on and off the field”.
