FG to Immortalize Stephen Keshi with Sports Diplomacy Honour
Ten years after his passing, former Super Eagles captain and coach Stephen Keshi is set to be immortalised by the Federal Government through induction into the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) Sports Diplomacy Wall of Fame.
The announcement was made during a memorial lecture held in Lagos to commemorate the football icon’s legacy.
Keshi’s name will be officially inscribed on the national monument on July 28, 2026, in recognition of his immense contributions to Nigerian football and his role in advancing the country’s international image through sports.
The NIIA Sports Diplomacy Wall of Fame was established to honour distinguished Nigerians who have promoted the nation’s diplomatic objectives and international standing through sporting achievements, with support from Air Peace Chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema.
Speaking at the event, former Super Eagles captain Segun Odegbami described Keshi as a worthy recipient of the honour, citing his remarkable achievements both as a player and coach.
Keshi captained Nigeria to victory at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and later repeated the feat as head coach of the Super Eagles in 2013, becoming one of the few Africans to win the continental title as both player and coach.
Popularly known as the “Big Boss,” Keshi also guided Togo to their first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance in 2006 and led Nigeria to the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, while helping many African footballers secure professional careers in Europe.
A former defender who starred for clubs including Anderlecht, Keshi was twice named CAF Coach of the Year, receiving the award in 2005 and 2013.
He died on June 7, 2016, at the age of 54 and was laid to rest in his hometown of Illah, Delta State.
The honour is expected to further cement his place among Nigeria’s most influential sporting figures and celebrate a legacy that continues to inspire generations of footballers across Africa.
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