ENUGU, June 26 (AGCNewsNet) – Super Eagles goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, has concluded his first off-season holiday in Nigeria, marking an emotional journey to his father’s homeland of Enugu, where he announced plans to launch a charitable foundation and a football academy.

Okoye, born in Düsseldorf, Germany, to a Nigerian father and German mother, chose to represent Nigeria in 2019. The 25-year-old shot-stopper for Italian Serie A side Udinese has since made 16 appearances for the Super Eagles.

After a solid 2024–25 season in Italy, Okoye visited his ancestral village, Amechi Uwani in Enugu South Local Government Area, for the first time. Sharing photos and videos on social media, the goalkeeper toured his father’s childhood compound and visited Community Primary School Amechi Awkunano, where he received a warm welcome from local pupils.

The footballer also embraced local traditions, exercising at Okpara Square while enjoying traditional Ogene music, and indulging in Abacha, a popular regional delicacy. He later paid homage to the Royal Highness of his community and participated in cultural rituals.

During a courtesy visit to Governor Dr. Peter Mbah at the Enugu State Government House, Okoye announced his commitment to youth empowerment in the state. “I’m truly excited to be back home. Enugu is my origin, and I carry it with pride everywhere I go,” Okoye said. “I look forward to giving back by setting up a foundation for humanitarian causes and a football academy to mentor and train aspiring players.”

In response, Governor Mbah appointed Okoye as an Ambassador of Enugu State, praising his professional achievements and philanthropic vision. “Maduka Okoye represents the best of Enugu talent on the national and global stage. We are proud of his achievements,” Mbah said. The Governor pledged land for the academy and promised upgrades to the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium to meet FIFA standards.

Before departing Nigeria via Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, Okoye reflected on the impact of his visit. “There is nothing more special than coming home,” he said. “I am leaving this country as a different man, mentally and spiritually.”

Okoye is expected to rejoin Udinese for pre-season training ahead of the 2025–26 Serie A campaign, with early fixtures against Verona, Inter Milan, and AC Milan.