By Ik Ogbonna, anipr, fcai, MPhil.
In the annals of African sports history, few titles carry as much prestige and legacy as “Pillar of Sports in Africa.” First bestowed upon the late Nigerian philanthropist and businessman Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola in 1980 by the African Sports Journalists Union, the honor recognized Abiola’s unparalleled contributions to sports across the continent.
Late MKO Abiola sponsored sports activities in Nigeria and other African countries, including Senegal, Cote d’Ivoire, Zambia, and Tunisia, leaving an indelible mark that elevated African athletics on the global stage. Following Abiola’s tragic death in 1998, the title lay dormant until it was revived and conferred upon Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, a Nigerian politician, philanthropist, businessman, and former governor of Abia State.
But why Orji Uzor Kalu one might want to ask? The answer lies in his transformative impact on Nigerian and African football, particularly during his tenure as Abia State Governor from 1999 to 2007, where his unwavering support for Enyimba Football Club (FC) propelled it to continental prominence, alongside his broader passion for sports development.
The Legacy of MKO Abiola and the Need for a Successor
MKO Abiola’s role as the inaugural Pillar of Sports in Africa was not just symbolic; it was earned through decades of investment in sports infrastructure, youth programs, and international competitions. His efforts helped foster unity and talent across Africa, making him a beacon for sports philanthropy.After his passing, there was a void in African sports leadership. Enter Orji Uzor Kalu, who, by the mid-2000s, had demonstrated a similar commitment to elevating sports, particularly football, as a tool for national pride and economic growth. In 2005, amid debates about his sports philanthropy, Kalu was recognized for his achievements, effectively stepping into Abiola’s shoes as the new Pillar of Sports in Africa—a title he has since embraced and expanded upon.
Kalu’s Governorship: The Rise of Enyimba FC and a Football Revolution in Abia State
Orji Uzor Kalu’s most celebrated contribution to sports came during his time as Governor of Abia State. Elected in 1999 under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Kalu inherited a state with untapped potential in various sectors, including sports. He viewed athletics not merely as recreation but as a vehicle for youth empowerment, tourism, and international recognition. Central to this vision was Enyimba International FC, based in Aba, Abia State.
Prior to Kalu’s administration, Enyimba was a modest local club struggling in the Nigerian Professional Football League. Kalu transformed it through strategic investments, deploying substantial funds and resources to build a world-class team. Understanding the critical role of funding in football success, he ensured the club had the necessary support for training, player acquisitions, and infrastructure upgrades. The results were historic: Under Kalu’s patronage, Enyimba became the first Nigerian club to win the CAF Champions League in 2003, repeating the feat in 2004. This broke a 38-year jinx for Nigerian clubs in the prestigious tournament, bringing unprecedented glory to the nation and putting Abia State on the global football map.
Kalu’s involvement went beyond finances. He fostered a culture of excellence, motivating players and staff with his personal passion for the game. As a result, Enyimba’s victories spurred football tourism in Abia, with fans from across Nigeria and beyond flocking to Aba for matches, boosting the local economy. Moreover, Kalu is credited with creating Nigeria’s first millionaire footballers through competitive salaries and incentives, elevating the professional status of players in the country. His “soccer diplomacy” extended to promoting sports as a means of unity, earning him awards like the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) recognition in 2005.
These achievements were not isolated. Kalu’s administration promoted sports across Abia State, investing in facilities and programs that unearthed talents in various disciplines. His efforts mirrored Abiola’s pan-African approach by inspiring other Nigerian states and African nations to prioritize sports development.
A Lifelong Love and Support for Sports: Beyond the Governorship
What truly solidified Kalu’s status as the Pillar of Sports in Africa was his enduring love for sports, which predated and outlasted his governorship. A self-proclaimed “lover of good football,” Kalu has consistently advocated for the game’s growth on the continent. Even after leaving office, he remained active, supporting Nigerian teams and expressing interest in global clubs like Arsenal FC, where he has voiced ambitions to replicate Enyimba’s successes.
Kalu’s broader support includes philanthropy in sports infrastructure and youth programs, much like Abiola. He has been involved in peace-building within Nigerian football, collaborating with figures like former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim to resolve conflicts in the sport.
Today, as a Senator representing Abia North, Kalu continues to champion sports, earning praise for his dedication to football, people, and progress in Abia.
A Worthy Successor to Abiola’s Legacy
Orji Uzor Kalu was made the Pillar of Sports in Africa after MKO Abiola because he embodied the same spirit of innovation, investment, and passion that defined his predecessor. Through his governorship, he turned Enyimba FC into a continental powerhouse, fostering economic growth, national pride, and talent development. His love for sports has been a constant thread, from local pitches in Aba to aspirations on the world stage. As Africa continues to rise in global sports, figures like Kalu remind us that true pillars are built on action, not just accolades.
Ik Ogbonna is a Media & PR Practitioner.
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