Several years after leaving the country, former Green Eagles defender, Godwin Odiye is back in Nigeria’s sports circle.

Odiye, who is based in the United States, made several appearances for the senior Nigeria national team, including FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, and played at the 1976 and 1980 African Cup of Nations finals. But he is popularly known as the defender that scored an own goal in a 1978 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Tunisia in Lagos. That goal ensured that the Green Eagles did not make the 1978 World Cup.

Odiye and another U.S.-based former national team player, Paul Okoku, reaffirmed their commitment to education and sports by making a remarkable donation of sports equipment and a monetary scholarship to St. Finbarr’s College, Akoka, Lagos.

The gesture was displayed during the school’s 60th inter-house sports competition, held on January 25, 2025, at the school’s premises in Akoka.

The sports equipment donated by Odiye and Okoku were presented to a cheering crowd in the school’s sports complex.

It sparked jubilation from the school authority, parents, students, well wishers and distinguished former students of the secondary, who spoke glowingly of the humanitarian efforts of the US-based former students.

The duo of Odiye and Okoku donated high-quality sports equipment, including Adidas jerseys, football boots, branded tracksuits, shin guards, hoses, and goalkeeper’s gloves.

They also bolstered the school’s scholarship programme through the St. Finbarr’s Old Boys Association, offering deserving students opportunities to excel academically.

Representing the two legends, Friday Okoku, presented the donations to the school administrator, Rev. Father Babalola Emmanuel, who expressed heartfelt gratitude.

“We are grateful for this great act of kindness and pray that you will continue to experience God’s goodness,” he said.”

President of the St. Finbarr’s Old Boys Association Patrick Doyle, a celebrated actor, commended the football icons for their contributions.

“Paul Okoku, vice-captain of the 1983 Flying Eagles, the first Nigerian team to compete in a FIFA-organised competition and Godwin Odiye, one of Africa’s greatest defenders, have shown exceptional gratitude for what this school has given them. Their actions inspire us all,” Doyle stated.

Doyle said the donated equipment will be used by the school’s football team at the upcoming Heritage Cup.

The school’s Head Teacher, Biyibi Victor highlighted the significance of the contribution by Odiye and Okoku.

“This donation will motivate our students and reinforce our rich sports heritage. Okoku and Odiye have set a shining example of giving back to their alma mater. Their actions inspire students to balance sports and academics, in line with the vision of our founder, Rev. Father Slattery,” he said.

“The contributions of Odiye and Okoku resonate with St. Finbarr’s ongoing modernisation efforts, which include the construction of state-of-the-art buildings, the renovation of existing structures, advanced hostels, science labs, and innovative technology programs. These efforts solidify the school’s position as a beacon of excellence in academics and sports,” he stated.