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Brazilian Legend Zico Hails Jay-Jay Okocha as One of Africa’s Greatest Footballers
Brazilian football legend Zico has praised Nigerian icon Jay-Jay Okocha, describing him as one of the greatest players to come out of Africa.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In an interview published Wednesday, Zico said, “I like Okocha — one of Africa’s greatest players,” placing the former Super Eagles captain among the continent’s all-time football greats. The former Brazil international, widely known as “the White Pelé,” also mentioned other African stars, including Samuel Eto’o, Didier Drogba, and George Weah, as part of his top four list.
Zico’s comments have drawn attention across the football world, highlighting the lasting impact Okocha’s career has had nearly two decades after his retirement.
Okocha, whose full name is Augustine Azuka Okocha, is celebrated for his flair, creativity, and ball control. The former Nigerian international made his mark at clubs such as Eintracht Frankfurt in Germany, Paris Saint-Germain in France, and Bolton Wanderers in England, where his dazzling footwork made him a fan favorite.
He played 73 times for Nigeria, scoring 14 goals, and helped the Super Eagles win the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations. He was also a key member of the team that won Olympic gold at the 1996 Atlanta Games — one of the proudest moments in Nigerian football history.
Okocha’s influence extended beyond trophies. Known for his dribbling and showmanship, he inspired a generation of African players and became a global ambassador for African football. His style earned admiration from legends and fans alike.
Zico, who starred for Brazil in the 1970s and 1980s, is regarded as one of the most skillful attacking midfielders in history. His recognition of Okocha carries weight, given his own reputation as a technical genius of the game.
Football analysts say Zico’s comments reflect how Okocha’s talent transcended borders and eras. “When someone like Zico singles out Okocha, it reminds the world that African footballers have produced artistry and intelligence equal to any continent,” said Nigerian sports journalist Femi Adesina.
Fans reacted quickly on social media, celebrating the tribute. Many shared highlight reels of Okocha’s most memorable goals and skills, while others called for his induction into more international football halls of fame.
Okocha, now 52, has remained active in football administration and media. He previously served as chairman of the Delta State Football Association and continues to promote youth sports development across Nigeria. In recent interviews, Okocha has said his proudest career moment was helping Nigeria win Olympic gold and his lowest was missing out on a FIFA World Cup quarterfinal with the Super Eagles.
The renewed praise from Zico has revived debates about Africa’s greatest-ever footballers. Alongside Okocha, players such as George Weah, the only African to win the Ballon d’Or; Cameroon’s Samuel Eto’o, a four-time African Player of the Year; and Ivory Coast’s Didier Drogba, a Champions League winner with Chelsea, are often included in discussions.
For many Nigerians, Zico’s words validate what they have long believed — that Okocha’s talent was world-class. “He played football the way it should be enjoyed — with joy, skill, and creativity,” said Lagos fan Kunle Alabi. “Hearing Zico say that just confirms it.”
As global football continues to honor past legends, Okocha’s name is once again being celebrated, not only for his achievements but for the excitement he brought to every pitch he played on.
Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, has advised the House of Representatives member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Leke Abejide, to remain in his party.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Gbajabiamila made the remark during a birthday celebration organised in honour of Abejide, according to reports.
He noted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) was pleased with the lawmaker’s activities within the ADC, adding that his presence was creating internal tensions in the opposition party.
The Chief of Staff also urged Abejide to disregard calls from APC members, including former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, who had reportedly encouraged him to defect to the ruling party.
“Don’t come to APC. Stay in ADC and scatter them. We like what you’re doing. Don’t mind former governor Yahaya Bello, who said you should join APC. No, no, no, stay in ADC and win your election. Also, bring Bala Gombe, and we’ll support him. Good luck in court,” he was quoted as saying.
Meanwhile, fresh tension has emerged within the African Democratic Congress as factional leader Nafiu Bala accused former national chairman Ralph Nwosu of misrepresenting the purpose of a recent party event.
Bala, speaking in an interview on AIT on Monday, said he was invited to what he believed was a routine meeting to welcome new members but later discovered it was used to announce a new leadership structure led by David Mark.
He explained that he only realised the full agenda after proceedings had begun, adding that the event also featured Nwosu stepping down while unveiling new party executives.
According to him, the development has deepened existing internal disputes within the party, especially with the appointment of David Mark and others into key leadership positions during the gathering.
Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun East Senatorial District have reportedly endorsed Governor Dapo Abiodun as their preferred candidate for the 2027 senatorial election.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
According to reports, the decision was taken on Monday during a large political gathering held at Adeola Odutola Hall in Ijebu-Ode, which attracted party stakeholders and grassroots representatives from across the district.
A statement from the governor’s media office indicated that the meeting was widely attended by key APC figures, including members of the Governor’s Advisory Council, former and serving local government chairmen, councillors from all wards, as well as current and former lawmakers at both state and national levels. Women leaders, youth groups, and other stakeholders were also present.
Party leaders at the event expressed confidence in Abiodun’s capacity to represent Ogun East effectively at the National Assembly, describing his leadership record as a key factor in their decision.
They also resolved to formally communicate the endorsement to the governor and begin mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.
The Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, noted that the governor’s performance in office and his role in fostering unity within the party were central to the decision to support his senatorial ambition.
The Presidency has criticised former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, questioning his leadership ability and accusing him of failing to manage internal crises within the Labour Party (LP).....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
According to reports, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, made the remarks during an interview on African Independent Television (AIT) on Monday.
Dare argued that Obi did not found the Labour Party and does not have full control over its structure, adding that his handling of party disputes raises concerns about his leadership capacity.
He further alleged that Obi has shown a pattern of moving between political platforms rather than resolving internal challenges, insisting that he “cannot fix” his own party.
Dare said the Labour Party’s internal crisis had been visible for years and questioned Obi’s level of involvement in resolving it, suggesting that he instead left the party amid the turmoil.
He stated that such leadership qualities should be scrutinised given national responsibilities, adding, “You cannot fix your party.”
The presidential aide also addressed claims linking the Presidency to the crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), rejecting any involvement and insisting the party’s internal issues were not influenced by the federal government.
He maintained that the ADC situation is already before the courts and should be resolved through judicial processes rather than public agitation or political pressure.
Dare urged all parties involved to respect ongoing legal proceedings, stressing that court decisions would ultimately determine the outcome of the disputes.
He added that the government remains committed to respecting the judiciary and warned against attempts to influence public opinion while cases are still being decided.
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