Idowu Afeez Oladele, hailing from Osun State, recently concluded his two-year academic journey at the National Institute for Sports (NIS). In an interview with Sports247, he shared his remarkable transformation and experiences during his time at NIS.
“I cannot imagine myself staying here for two years,” Idowu began. “It seemed like a very long time, but to the glory of God, I wrote my final exams today. NIS has taught me a lot. Before I came to NIS, I used to be very temperamental and would get angry very easily. NIS taught me to be patient and calm. I learned that from many people I met here from different backgrounds.”
At NIS, Idowu had the opportunity to interact with individuals from every state in Nigeria, an experience he found invaluable. “In youth service, you can’t meet everyone in Nigeria. But here in NIS, you would find people from every state, as Lagos is the only place that has NIS. It has been a wonderful and beautiful experience.”
Idowu currently works with Joy Comet FC in Ikorodu, where he assists the coaching crew. He has actively integrated what he learned at NIS into the club’s training programs. While he plans to continue with the club after NIS, he also looks forward to exploring better offers and opportunities in the world of football coaching. He aspires to study and obtain a CAF A or B coaching license.
Balancing his studies with work and self-employment as a mechanical engineer was no small feat for Idowu. However, he managed these responsibilities effectively, showcasing his dedication and time management skills.
Idowu Afeez Oladele emphasized the importance of young people having a side hustle in addition to pursuing their passion for football. “I do tell my players to have a side hustle, not to stick to football alone. Football is a 50-50 game. I have seen a lot of good players who do not end up playing football. So, if, peradventure, it does not work out, they have something to fall back on.”
He shared a personal anecdote that underscored the significance of diversifying one’s skills. “I wanted to play football, but my father forced me to go back to school, and it has really helped me a lot. I stopped playing professional football 12 years ago due to injury. If I did not have any side hustle to fall back on, my life would have been miserable.”
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Idowu’s advice to young and upcoming players is clear: “Even if it is to learn a skill, just have a side hustle, and it would help a lot.” He noted that at NIS, some coaches have side businesses, such as barbing, which provide additional income and job security.
In closing, Idowu shared words of encouragement for those considering enrolling at NIS. “Sports is a beautiful thing and has taken a lot of people off the street. If one is engaged, they do not get into trouble.” His story exemplifies the transformative potential of pursuing one’s passion while maintaining practical skills as a safety net for the future.
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