Peter Obi of the Labour Party says the feat achieved by striker Victor Osimhen demonstrated what the Nigerian youth can do if put in a proper environment.
Osimhen on Saturday propelled his clubside Napoli to the Italian Serie A title after a 33-year wait. He scored in the 1-1 draw against Udinese to ensure the Gli Azurris clinched the Scudetto with four matches to spare.
On Sunday, Mr Obi tweeted to celebrate the Nigerian forward. He pointed out that the football star’s humble beginning did not limit him because he was afforded an opportunity to pursue his dreams.
“Osimhen’s inspiring story of rising from the slums of Ojota Lagos to become one of the best footballers in the world is an eloquent testimony to what Nigerian youths can achieve if given the right atmosphere to pursue their dreams,” Mr Obi said.
“It is yet another proof that a new Nigeria is POssible if we harness the abundant talents of our teeming youths.”
The last born in a family of six, Osimhen was born and bred in Olusosun, a small Lagos community, near Ikeja, hosting one of Africa’s largest dumpsites.
A proven goalscorer, Osimhen was influential in Napoli’s run for the league title, similar to heights reached by club legend Diego Maradona when the Neapolitans last won the Scudetto.
In leading Napoli to the title this season, Osimhen broke George Weah’s record as highest African goalscorer in Serie A history.
The former youth international netted his 23rd goal this season against Florentina last Sunday to bring his goal tally to 47, one above Weah’s 46 goals.
