In a powerful act of respect and community spirit, Dr. Chima Anyaso paid a surprise visit to sports legend Mr. Football in Umuahia after his 70th birthday, offering prayers and heartfelt tributes in a gathering that drew top Abia stakeholders.
In a heartfelt display of respect, recognition, and admiration, Dr. Chima Desmond Anyaso, fondly known as Ofuji Global, on Sunday, May 18, 2025, paid a surprise visit to Senior Citizen Ejikeme Ikwunze, popularly known as “Mr. Football,” at his residence in Umuawa Alaocha, Ohuhu, Umuahia, Abia State.
The visit came just five days after Mr. Football celebrated his 70th birthday on May 13. The renowned sports figure, journalist, and community leader was stunned when the Bende-born philanthropist and politician, accompanied by top political figures and stakeholders from across Abia, showed up unannounced to honor him.
Mr. Football, an iconic name in Nigerian and African sports journalism, has served as Director of Sports for Abia State and was once the President-General of the Ohuhu Welfare Union Worldwide. For decades, he has written for both local and international sports publications, making him a respected voice in global football discourse.
Dr. Anyaso’s visit was not only to celebrate the milestone birthday but also to offer fervent prayers for Mr. Football’s health and long life. In his words, Ofuji declared: “I came to honor a man whose life and work have shaped sports commentary in Nigeria. I pray that God restores his health and strengthens him to continue impacting lives.”
Although the two have long maintained an online friendship and mutual admiration, this marked their first face-to-face meeting.
Ofuji’s gesture was not a solo act. He was accompanied by an impressive delegation including:
Engr. Enyinnay Chima Nwafor, his long-time political associate,
Hon. Fyne Ahuama, member representing Osisioma South State Constituency,
Hon. Iheanacho Nwogu, Abia State House of Assembly member,
Chief Victor Ugochukwu Nwaogu, Deputy Mayor of Osisioma Ngwa,
Ezeogo Emeka Onuoha, former Commissioner for Environment,
Comrade John Mark, two-time former Deputy Chairman of Bende LGA,
Barr. Bestman Eruba, YPP State Publicity Secretary,
Barr. Ben Udechukwu, legal luminary,
Mr. Chimaeze Nwafor, and
Numerous other political stakeholders from Bende Federal Constituency.
The emotional moment was captured in photos and short videos now making rounds on social media, with many praising Chima Anyaso for showing true leadership by honoring the elderly and uplifting community heroes.
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