By Kehinde KOLAWOLE
As their football careers wind down, many players meticulously chart their post-retirement paths. Some choose to remain in the sport, stepping into roles as managers or analysts, while others dive into entrepreneurial pursuits, launching businesses or investing in various ventures. A few even swap their cleats for golf clubs, embracing a new athletic challenge. Each transition is a new chapter, reflecting the diverse aspirations and talents of those who once dazzled on the pitch.
In the world of Nigerian football, the Super Eagles have seen a fascinating shift from playing to coaching. Legends like Samson Siasia, Finidi George, and Augustine Eguavoen have seamlessly transitioned from the pitch to the sidelines, channeling their expertise into guiding the next generation. Meanwhile, other iconic figures such as John Obi Mikel, Nwankwo Kanu, and Jay-Jay Okocha have taken divergent routes, pursuing ventures far from the football field. Their journeys reflect the diverse paths that once-great players take as they forge new legacies beyond their illustrious careers.
In an unexpected twist, several former athletes embark on a new journey as pastors, immersing themselves in the ministry. They leave behind their past careers to embrace a calling that leads them to preach the gospel with fervor and dedication, channeling their once competitive spirit into spiritual leadership.
TARIBO WEST
Known for his distinctive and unconventional hairstyle, Taribo West made an indelible mark on the football world over a remarkable 17-year career. At 50, West’s legacy is highlighted by his impactful performances with some of Europe’s elite clubs, including Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Auxerre. His unique look was as unforgettable as his contributions on the field, leaving a lasting impression in the annals of football history.
The resolute defender made 42 appearances for the Super Eagles, showcasing his tenacity on the field. A key player in Nigeria’s gold medal triumph at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, he also brought his skills to the global stage, representing Nigeria in two World Cups and several Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
In 2014, West established Shelter in the Storm Miracle Ministries of All Nations in Lagos, driven by a profound spiritual transformation. In a revealing 2021 interview, he shared that this shift to ministry followed a personal, direct encounter with the divine. Reflecting on his past, he openly admitted his prior involvement in occult practices during his career.
It partly reads, “Why would I switch from being a footballer to becoming a pastor? I saw God one on one. That’s where my transition started—from the field to the pulpit,” West told the BBC.
“In the twinkle of an eye, I just heard an audible voice. And it came like a slap. It said: ‘Switch, turn.’ I turned. It said: ‘Look at the woman. Look for her now and call that woman and apologise to her. I said that to you.’ That can only be a voice from God.
“So I switched, like a Robocop, I start searching for the woman, and when this sister came all the way from America, she told me a lot of prophecies. And she told me in the next one or two years; I would open a church. All the prophecies she gave me came to pass.”
ALLOY AGU
Alloy Agu was a pivotal force for Nigeria’s national team between 1988 and 1994. His skill and determination were instrumental in Nigeria’s triumph at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations. That same year, he also made history as part of Nigeria’s debut squad in the World Cup, showcasing his talent on the global stage.
Alloy Agu’s football journey began on the local scene with NEPA and ACB Lagos, where his talent quickly caught the eye. His impressive performances earned him a move to Dutch club MVV Maastricht, marking the start of an international career. Agu’s skills next took him to RFC Liège in Belgium, followed by a stint with Kayserispor in Turkey. Alongside his club successes, he made a notable impact with the Nigerian national team, earning 28 caps for the Super Eagles.
In a 2021 interview, Agu shared a deeply personal decision: he stepped away from professional football earlier than expected, guided by a profound spiritual commitment. His retirement wasn’t just a career choice but a fulfillment of a solemn promise he had made to God, intertwining his faith with his future.
He serves as the spiritual leader at Christ Divine Church of God, guiding his congregation with wisdom and compassion.
PETERSIDE IDAH
Once a formidable force in Nigerian football, the former goalkeeper’s career was a saga of remarkable feats. He dazzled in goal for prominent Nigerian clubs such as Enyimba, Heartland, and BCC Lions. His prowess between the posts soon caught the eye of South African teams, leading him to join Temba Classic and later, Moroka Swallows. Now, as a respected TV pundit, he reflects on a career that bridged continents and showcased his exceptional talent.
In a revealing interview, Peterside shared that his life took a transformative turn in 1996, during his time with Iwuanyanwu Nationale (now Heartland FC). It was then that he embraced Christianity, marking a pivotal shift in his personal journey. That same year, he deepened his faith by attending Word of Faith Bible College, where he earned a diploma, further solidifying his commitment to his new spiritual path.
He had long harbored a vision for his future: upon retirement, he would step away from his current life and embrace a new calling. In the twilight of his career, he confidently declared that he would transition from his professional role to become a pastor, guided by a profound sense of purpose and a lifetime of preparation.
“I knew it from a very tender age. My parents are pastors of Assemblies of God Church, and they influenced me a whole lot. So, as a young person, I was ministering in the youth church, I became a youth leader in the church, and I was ministering as a young lad at age 11. At a point, I used to lead the youth choir as well, and somehow I knew this was going to be my life, beyond every reasonable doubt.”
At present, he serves as the esteemed pastor of Christ Ambassadors Church, nestled in the vibrant community of Kempton Park, Johannesburg. His leadership and spiritual guidance illuminate the path for the congregation, enriching the lives of many in this dynamic urban setting.
CHIDI NWANU
Chidi Nwanu enjoyed a distinguished football career that stretched over 15 years, gracing the fields of several clubs. His journey began at ACB Football Club in Lagos before taking him to Belgium, where he played for Westerlo, Beveren, and the illustrious Anderlecht. Each team marked a chapter in his dynamic and storied career.
Renowned for his remarkable displays with the Super Eagles, Nwanu captured the spotlight during the 1994 World Cup in the USA. His exceptional skills also shone through in the 1988 Olympic squad. Over the course of his international career, Nwanu proudly earned 20 caps for Nigeria, solidifying his legacy in Nigerian football history.
He now serves as a pastor in the Prophetic and Deliverance Ministry in the United States, where he guides his congregation through spiritual journeys, offering profound insights and transformative healing.
IKPE EKONG
Ikpe Ekong, a prominent Nigerian midfielder born in Lagos, embarked on an illustrious football journey starting in 1995 with Julius Berger. Over two decades, he graced the fields of 12 different clubs across Europe and Africa, leaving a notable mark with his versatile play. After concluding his playing career in 2016, Ekong shifted gears, transitioning into new endeavors beyond the football pitch.
In a recent interview, Ekong recounted a transformative moment that led him to the pulpit. He described an intense, personal encounter with the divine that profoundly reshaped his life and convictions. This spiritual revelation propelled him to embrace a new path, one that now sees him passionately guiding others from the pulpit.
“I was privileged to have seen Jesus three times and the fourth time; he appeared to me at my villa in Sweden. It was an experience that no word can chronicle. So the next thing I did was to study and acquire more knowledge for the credentials given to me by God through His son, Jesus.
He (Jesus) characteristically told me to bring his people together. I have been involved in the ministry for years; I travel around the world to visit helpless (people), prisoners and I have testified in churches to sportsmen and women.”
He is presently ministering at The Centre International Church City Church in Sweden, where he serves as a dedicated pastor, guiding and nurturing the community with unwavering faith and compassion.
