Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has congratulated Nigerian football star Victor Osimhen following his outstanding performance in helping Galatasaray S.K. secure the Turkish Süper Lig title.
In a statement released on Sunday, Obi praised Osimhen for scoring twice in the crucial match that confirmed Galatasaray as league champions, describing the striker as a source of inspiration to millions of young Nigerians.
The former Anambra State governor commended Osimhen’s resilience, discipline, and dedication, noting that the footballer has consistently represented Nigeria positively on the global stage.
“I want to join other fans in congratulating one of Nigeria’s many talented exports, Victor Osimhen, for successfully leading Galatasaray S.K. to the Turkish Süper Lig title with a brilliant performance, scoring twice in the decisive victory that sealed the championship,” Obi stated.
He said Osimhen’s success story remains proof that hard work, determination, and commitment can elevate Nigerian youths to global recognition despite prevailing challenges in the country.
According to Obi, the Super Eagles striker has become a symbol of hope for many young Nigerians aspiring to succeed through talent and perseverance.
“Your resilience, discipline, and talent continue to inspire millions of young Nigerians to believe in the power of hard work, dedication, and excellence,” he said.
Obi further described the football star as a proud ambassador of Nigeria whose achievements continue to bring honour and positive attention to the country internationally.
“You have remained a proud ambassador of Nigeria on the global stage, bringing honour to our nation through your achievements and conduct. Nigerians are immensely proud of you and your continued success,” he added.
The former presidential candidate also used the opportunity to reiterate his long-held position on the importance of sports development in Nigeria, arguing that the sector has enormous potential to transform the lives of young people and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Obi lamented what he described as the persistent neglect of sports by successive administrations, insisting that Nigeria possesses countless talented youths who only require proper support, investment, and enabling structures to excel internationally.
“I have often spoken about the transformative power of sports and the immense opportunities it offers to young people. This is why the persistent neglect of the sector in our country is deeply regrettable,” Obi stated.
According to him, the emergence of talents like Osimhen should serve as a reminder of the untapped potential that exists across the country in sports and other creative sectors.
“The truth is that Nigeria is blessed with countless talents like Osimhen, waiting for the right leadership, support, and environment to rise, excel, and bring glory to the nation,” he said.
Obi stressed that sports development should not be treated as mere entertainment but as a strategic sector capable of driving youth empowerment, reducing unemployment, and improving Nigeria’s international image.
He maintained that with proper investment in sports infrastructure, grassroots development programmes, and talent discovery initiatives, Nigeria could become a dominant force in global sports while also creating sustainable economic opportunities for young people.
The former governor further reaffirmed his belief in the possibility of building a better Nigeria where all sectors of the economy and society receive equal attention and development.
“I reiterate that a new Nigeria, where all sectors develop simultaneously for the balanced growth and health of the nation, is possible,” he declared.
Obi concluded his message by wishing Osimhen greater success in his football career and expressing confidence that the striker would continue to make Nigeria proud in future competitions.
“I wish Victor Osimhen even greater success in the years ahead,” he added.
Osimhen has continued to enjoy widespread acclaim following his remarkable performances in Europe, where he has established himself as one of Africa’s most prolific strikers.
His latest achievement with Galatasaray has further cemented his reputation as one of Nigeria’s most successful football exports in recent years.
