Onitsha Football Veterans from Diaspora Pay Royal Visit to Obi
- Jan 27
- 2 min read
A group of former Onitsha-based footballers living abroad has made a significant cultural return, paying a formal visit to the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Majesty Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe Agbogidi, at the monarch’s palace in Onitsha.
The delegation, representing the Onitsha Ex-Footballers in Diaspora (ONIFID), joined forces with the Amsterdam All Stars, a team of former Nigerian footballers residing in the Netherlands, to mark the occasion.
The visit was organized as part of activities surrounding a friendly match between the two teams at Chuba Ikpeazu Stadium, located on Awka Road, Onitsha. Members of both squads had expressed a strong desire to connect with the traditional institution before the game, given the proximity of the stadium to the royal palace.
Facilitated by Abada Iwuchukwu, an Onitsha indigene based in Amsterdam and a member of both groups, the visit was described as a long-awaited opportunity for the diaspora football community to reconnect with their roots.
The ONIFID team is made up of former footballers who grew up in Onitsha but now live in different countries worldwide, while the Amsterdam All Stars comprises ex-players based mainly in Amsterdam and its surrounding areas.
A representative of the royal court confirmed that the monarch received the delegation warmly and offered prayers and blessings for the visiting sportsmen. The meeting was described as a culturally significant moment, reinforcing the bond between the diaspora community and the traditional leadership of Onitsha.
Leaders from both teams expressed gratitude for the opportunity to meet the Obi, saying the visit reaffirmed their respect for the institution and their commitment to sustaining cultural ties.
The friendly match later took place, drawing local support and adding a celebratory atmosphere to the reunion.
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