When Franklin oluwasegun Currie, popularly known as “Kiraa,” reflects on his journey as the founder of Kiraa FC, he attributes much of his growth to the mentorship of Kunle Soname.
Soname, celebrated as the founder of Bet9ja and the visionary behind ValueJet, has inspired countless entrepreneurs across Nigeria, Sports247 reports.
“Kunle’s life and career show what can happen when you believe in your dreams,” says Kiraa, who sees Soname as a mentor embodying resilience, vision, and community investment.
Kiraa’s admiration for Soname deepened when his team, Kiraa FC, faced Beyond Limits in a friendly match, a moment that highlighted how Soname’s sports ventures have shaped Nigerian football. Soname’s impact, however, spans beyond sports.
As Nigeria’s first club owner to acquire a European team, Clube Desportivo Feirense, Soname has paved pathways for African talent internationally.
This influence is felt not just in Kiraa’s football pursuits, but also in his ventures in media and agriculture. As the founder of Kiraa TV and Kiraa Farm, Kiraa aims to contribute to local growth by spotlighting emerging talent and promoting sustainable agriculture.
“Kunle’s work shows us how investing in different fields can have a lasting impact,” Kiraa explains, noting how his mentor has helped him see the potential for growth across industries.
But it is Soname’s recent venture into aviation with ValueJet that resonates most deeply with Kiraa. Built on providing accessible air travel, ValueJet embodies Soname’s commitment to public service and economic growth.
When the airline made its inaugural landing at Ogun State’s Agro-Cargo Airport, it symbolized Soname’s dedication to his roots in Ikenne—a value that Kiraa also holds dear.
For Kiraa, Soname’s mentorship extends beyond business achievements; it’s a lesson in nurturing community and giving back.
“I call him my mentor,” says Kiraa, “because he shows us all that if we stay rooted and aim high, we can lift others up along the way.” As he continues to grow his ventures, Kiraa hopes to emulate Soname’s impact, offering inspiration and opportunity for the next generation.
