Joel Ajayi
The former Super Eagles striker and current Al-Wehda forward Odion Ighalo has revealed how he has personally empowered over 250 boys from his Ajegunle neighborhood in Lagos,widows, Orphans others as part of his broader efforts to support underprivileged youths across Nigeria.
Speaking during a visit by Guinness World Record holder Joshua Aiyenuro Babatunde at his residence in Abuja, Ighalo reflected on his lifelong passion for community upliftment.
“I have an academy, an orphanage, and I support widows every month. Just this morning, I met with some widows in Abuja to offer them assistance. I’ve empowered over 250 boys from my street alone.”
“Not everyone will become a footballer, but through initiatives like this, we can help take young people off the streets and give them purpose.”
Ighalo praised Ayenuro for his recent record-breaking feat over 154-hour haircut marathon at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja during the week and pledged his support for Ayenuro’s new project aimed at empowering 37,000 barbers across Nigeria.
“Joshua’s initiative is timely and important. If more people take on community-focused projects like this, our streets will be safer, and fewer young people will turn to crime or suffer from poverty,” Ighalo said. “It won’t be easy, but with the determination you’ve already shown, I believe you can do it. I’ll support you in every way I can.”
In a heartfelt response, Ayenuro expressed deep appreciation for Ighalo’s mentorship and generosity, recalling how their relationship began in 2018 during the Super Eagles’ World Cup preparations in Uyo.
“I had nothing when I was in Lagos. But when I moved to Abuja, everything changed,” Ayenuro said. “I met Ighalo in Uyo, and he welcomed me. Since then, he has continued to show me kindness.”
Ayenuro also spoke of his time working at Ighalo’s orphanage in Lagos, calling it a life-changing experience that inspired him to use his talent to serve others.
“When I received the call to come and meet him again, I canceled all other appointments. Seeing Ighalo is like seeing Jesus to me. He’s been a blessing in my life, and I’m grateful for the platform he’s given me to shine,” he added.
Ayenuro’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to global recognition, along with his ambitious plan to uplift thousands of barbers nationwide, continues to capture hearts across Nigeria — proving the power of determination, mentorship, and giving back to the community.
