Mikel Obi visits Gov. Lalong, plans to establish football academy in Jos

Mike Obi, Former Super Eagles Captain and Stoke City player says he is planning to increase his investment in Plateau State and also engage in other social development activities as a way of giving back to his place of birth and base where his footballing career began.

Mikel who visited Governor Lalong at the Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, praised him for his efforts at restoring peace in Plateau State which is promoting development and prosperity for the benefit of the people.The former Chelsea star said Jos is his home where he was born and raised and also given the support to develop his passion for football which has taken him to the global stage.He said he remembers with fond memories his upbringing in Plateau State and the hospitality and love of the people as well as the beautiful and serene atmosphere that remains an attraction to people from within and outside Nigeria.

Governor Lalong welcomed the international football star, describing him as a pride to Nigeria and in particular Plateau State which is famous for grooming stars in sports, entertainment and music, academia, banking, administration among others.He urged the footballer to continue to connect with Plateau State and show more presence by contributing to the development of not only sports, but other areas of investment.

Lalong told Mikel Obi that the Plateau State will host a Glorious Stars event alongside an Investment and Economic Summit which is meant to showcase the potentials of the State and also reunite the array of stars that have emerged out of the State over the years.He said Plateau is still a melting pot for all Nigerians and foreigners and continues to groom stars. Mikel is due to visit Jos in the coming weeks.