Here our Managing Editor, Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka reports that at 22, Godswill Chinwendu is living the dream many Nigerian boys chase on dusty pitches: playing professional football in Europe. A graduate of JK Football Academy in the Federal Capital Territory, the Awkuzu-born centre-forward is now turning out for KS Besa in Albania. But while he scores abroad, his academy coach Pastor Ifeanyi Isaac is scoring a different goal at home: a loud appeal to the NFF, the Federal Ministry of Sports, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the National Assembly to bring Chiwendu into the national fold and support academies that keep producing talent.
The Player’s Journey
Godswill Chiwendu graduated from JK Football Academy in the FCT and has since been playing for clubs in Europe and parts of the world. Since 2025, he has featured for KS Besa in Albania with a market value of €125k, making his debut in the 2025/2026 season with 1 start.
Academy CEO Makes Public Appeal
The CEO and Chief Coach of JK Football Academy, Pastor Ifeanyi Isaac, has appealed to the Nigerian Football Federation, the Federal Ministry of Sports, President Tinubu, and the legislative arms of government to support Nigerian-born international footballers like Chiwendu and elevate their visibility.
Call for Academy Support
Isaac made the call during a press conference, urging government to encourage and empower football academies like JK Football Academy. He argued that sports, especially football, can boost the economy if properly harnessed.
Academy’s Track Record
JK Football Academy, affiliated with JK Football Academy in Turkey, has been nurturing African players and placing them in club sides where they perform exceptionally well. The academy has branches in Nigeria and Ghana and has produced several talents currently playing abroad.
Chiwendu’s Profile
Chiwendu, a 22-year-old centre-forward, is one of the academy’s standout products. Isaac described him as a “very special striker” with a “Lion Heart” who is “deadly when he is in the box.” He urged national team coaches and the NFF to look into his talent.
International Experience
According to Isaac, Chiwendu’s experience playing for international clubs like Fatih Karagumruk and Trepca 89 makes him an ideal candidate for the Super Eagles. “For football to move to the expected level in Nigeria, we need footballers like him to be invited to the national team,” he emphasized.
Plea to Lawmakers
Isaac appealed to senators to support young academies in Nigeria, citing an example of a senator who sponsored a player for a trial abroad. He suggested the government should make laws to support registered sports academies that contribute to the economy.
Economic Argument
He noted that many Nigerian footballers have investments in the country and can boost the economy if given the opportunity. Supporting local academies, he said, is investing in both sports and national development.
Call for Collaboration
Isaac urged the NFF, Sports Commission, and legislators to work together to harness young talents in Nigeria. He said synergy among stakeholders will help Nigeria maintain its status as a sports giant in Africa.
Conditions Under Which Talent Is Built
The JK Academy boss called on government to provide support to young academies which train players in challenging conditions. He said recognition and funding will make their work easier and more impactful.
*11. Latest Signings Prove Concept*
The academy has produced several players currently playing for top clubs abroad, including a recent signing with Kepsa in Kosovo. Isaac said these successes prove that investing in youth football is worthwhile for the country’s future.
Chiwendu’s Roots and Form
Born in Awkuzu, Anambra State, Chiwendu has shown promising performances since joining KS Besa. Isaac believes his inclusion in the Super Eagles would be a significant boost to Nigerian football, especially with World Cup qualifiers approaching.
National Team Context
The NFF has been under pressure to identify and invite talented players to represent the country. Chiwendu’s performances abroad make him a strong contender for a spot in a squad that already includes stars like Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon.
Awaiting Federation Response
The NFF has not yet responded to Isaac’s call, but the football community is abuzz with excitement about Chiwendu’s potential. His story is already serving as inspiration for young Nigerian footballers dreaming of making it big.
Broader Vision for Nigerian Football
Isaac’s appeal is seen as more than a plea for one player. It is a push to recognize, develop, and integrate Nigerian talent at home and abroad. With the right policies and support, he believes academies like JK can keep supplying the Super Eagles and help the nation’s football move to the expected level.
