Check Out The Nigerian Footballers Who Have Stadiums Named After Them {Photos}

A number of Nigerian footballers, both living and dead, have had stadiums named after them, out of respect and appreciation for their contributions.

1. Stephen Keshi

Stephen Keshi Stadium is located in Asaba. It was named after Stephen Keshi, who is the only Nigerian to win the Africa Cup of Nations Tournament as a player and also as a manager.

2. Teslim Balogun

Teslim Balogun stadium, which is situated in Lagos, was named after former Nigerian footballer and manager Teslim Balogun, who was nicknamed Thunder.

3. Adokiye Amiesimaka

63-year old Adokiye Amiesimaka is a retired Nigerian footballer who studied Law. He played for clubs like Enugu Rangers, ACB Lagos and Sharks of Port Harcourt, as well as the Nigerian national team.

The Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, which is located in Port Harcourt and has a seating capacity of 38,000 was named after him.

4. Chioma Ajunwa

49-year old Chioma Ajunwa is an officer in the Nigerian Police Force. She was an athlete who participated in Long Jump. She became the first Nigerian athlete to win an Olympic gold medal. She was also a footballer and participated in the women’s FIFA World Cup in 1991.

The Chioma Ajunwa Stadium in Ahiazu Mbaise was named after her.

5. Samson Siasia

Samson Siasia was born on August 14, 1967. He is one of the few Nigerians who have played and also coached the Nigerian national team.

The Yenagoa Township stadium, which has a seating capacity of 5,000 was renamed Samson Siasia Sports Stadium in the year 2009.

6. Jay-Jay Okocha

Austin Jay Jay Okocha is one of the most skilful and talked about Nigerian footballers in history. He played for clubs like PSG, Bolton Wanderers and Eintracht Frankfurt, and is arguably the best player not to win the Africa Player of the Year Award.

The Jay Jay Okocha Stadium located in Ogwashi-uku, Delta State, was named after him.

7. Dam Anyiam Stadium

Daniel Amobi Amadi Anyiam was born on November 26, 1926. He played for the Nigerian national team and became their first captain in 1949. He later became the coach of the team. Anyiam died on July 6, 1977.

The Dan Anyiam Stadium Sports Complex located in Owerri, Imo state, was named after him.