Former Nigerian international, Kingsley Obiekwu has stated that the need to support his meagre wages as a Coach turned him into a commercial bus driver.
The Atlanta ’96 Olympics Gold medal-winning Dream Team player had received a kind donation of N2 million from Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa, after reports emerged that the national icon works as a bus driver in Enugu to earn a living.
Obiekwu’s promising career was short-lived- retiring at the age of 30 years due to a heart condition.
The 47-year-old who currently manages a team in Nigeria’s Nationwide League One, has explained what led him to his new venture despite his exploits in the beautiful game.
“The story is absolutely true, there is no lie about it. I had to open up on my situation to people because I needed help,” Obiekwu told GOAL.
“It was not an easy thing to do, but I had to summon very great courage because things are very tough.
“The club I manage is Ingas and we play in NLO 1, we don’t train every day – we train Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. So Tuesdays and Thursdays, I’m always free and I use those days to go for my transport business.”
The former Dutch Eredivisie defender went on to thank Musa for his kind gesture, as well as Nigerians who have strived to put a smile on his face.
Obiekwu, Member of the Order of Niger (MON), had revealed his predicaments in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Awka.
“On Wednesday, captain Ahmed Musa sent me two million naira after hearing my story. This means a big deal to me, and I am very thankful for his show of love,” added Obiekwu.
Before making history with Jo Bonfrere’s squad, the hard as nails defender had joined Dutch Eredivisie side Go Ahead Eagles after impressing Nigeria elite division side Udoji United.
After leaving the Netherlands, Obiekwu continued his professional career at Al Ahli in Dubai and then Egyptian side Al Masry, sandwiched between stints with Enugu Rangers.
