Nigerians eagerly await Pele

The great Pele born Edson Arantes do Nascimentor, will be in the country for the Youth Experience Day Africa (YEDA) Legend edition organised by Winihin Jemide Services.

The event is a youth development and empowerment programme put together by the organisers.

Pele, who was earlier scheduled to visit in August could not because of ill health.

The former footballers spoke at a clinic held at Campus Mini Stadium, Lagos Island to kick-start the activities lined up for Pele’s visit.

Victor Ikpeba, a former Super Eagles skipper said that the initiative was a commendable, adding that Pele who had inspired young people around the globe over the years was a personality young people should emulate.

“Pele is the most recognised football figure in the world and he has inspired young people in their different spheres of life owing to his personality.

“I have had course to meet with him few times and he inspired me as a person during my playing days; I am proud to be part of this great event.

“I am happy he is coming and hopefully young people will have the opportunity to interact with him and gain something,’’ he said.

Also, Wahid Akanni, a former player said that the visit would activate the country’s football environment.

Akanni said that the programme was coming at a time the country’s football should be restructured for growth.

“Pele in Nigeria no doubt will have great impact on our youth and everywhere will be agog for this visit.

“He is the greatest soccer player who rose to the highest level of his career in spite of his background and I think young people should learn from that and achieve their aspirations.

“The organisers have done fantastically well by bringing Pele to the country for such an event,’’ he said.

An exclusive dinner with Pele and other African legends will hold on Sept. 24 where Pele’s memorabilia will be auctioned.

The proceeds of the auction will be donated to Kanu Heart Foundation and the City of David football academy.

Pele first visited Nigeria in 1967 which prompted a two-day ceasefire during the Nigerian civil war.