The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has appointed Super Eagles and Udinese FC goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, as an official Ambassador of Enugu State. The announcement was made during a courtesy visit by the football star to the Government House, Enugu, on Tuesday.

Okoye, who hails from Enugu State, expressed joy at returning to his roots, where he unveiled plans to establish a charitable foundation and a football academy aimed at empowering young talents and contributing to community development.

“I’m truly excited to be back home. Enugu is my origin, and I carry it with pride everywhere I go,” Okoye said. “I look forward to giving back by setting up a foundation for humanitarian causes and a football academy to mentor and train aspiring players.”

Governor Mbah, in his remarks, praised Okoye for being a proud ambassador of Enugu on both national and international stages. He lauded the goalkeeper’s passion for youth development and reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to support initiatives that empower young people in the state.

“Maduka Okoye represents the best of Enugu talent on the global stage,” the governor stated. “We are proud of his achievements and deeply inspired by his commitment to give back to the society. We are appointing him as an official Ambassador of Enugu State. His story will serve as a beacon of hope and a source of motivation for students in our Smart Green Schools and across our communities.”

Governor Mbah further revealed that the state government would provide land for the proposed football academy, and invited Okoye to participate in the upcoming Enugu International Marathon — an event poised to draw elite runners and tourists from across the globe.

In addition, he disclosed plans to revamp and upgrade the iconic Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium to meet FIFA standards, aligning with his administration’s broader agenda of transforming Enugu into a hub for sports, innovation, and youth excellence.

Reaffirming his government’s commitment to youth empowerment, Governor Mbah emphasized the role of sports in driving social change, promoting healthy lifestyles, and fostering community development.

“Enugu is a land of talent, and we are determined to provide platforms and partnerships that will help our young people succeed nationally and internationally,” he added.

Maduka Okoye’s visit and appointment as State Ambassador marks a significant moment in the intersection of sports and governance in Enugu, signaling a renewed focus on youth-driven initiatives and talent development under Governor Mbah’s administration.