Tribute: Amodu told us to wear Nigeria’s colours with pride – Iwobi

Arsenal forward Alex Iwobi on Tuesday paid tribute to late coach Shaibu Amodu, the former technical director of the Nigeria Football Federation, who died at the weekend aged 58.

The 20-year-old recalled a meeting with Amodu before the Super Eagles’ 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Egypt in Kaduna last March.

He said Amodu, who led Nigeria to qualify for the 2002 and 2010 World Cups and also finished third with Nigeria at two Afcon tournaments, enjoined the players to wear the national colours with pride, dedication and commitment.

“What struck me most was Coach Amodu’s in-depth knowledge of the game, his attention to detail and his calm manner and approach,” Iwobi said in a tribute made available to Goal.

“He was assertive and very encouraging to the team and made it clear that the hopes and aspirations of the nation rested on our shoulders.

“I was shocked to hear about the sudden passing away of Coach Shaibu Amodu.

“Coach Amodu without question is a colossus and football icon and has over the years made meaningful contribution to Nigerian football both at club and international levels.

“I also learnt that Coach Amodu worked at various times with BCC Lions, El-Kanemi Warriors, Shooting Stars and Orlando Pirates and with the Nigeria Senior National Team.

“He took great pride in his job, his achievements speak for themselves and fitting tributes have been made by the nation in recognition of his achievements.

“Coach Amodu has coached the cream of Nigerian football players and I had the privilege of working with him albeit for a very short time during the preparations for the two-legged Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Egypt.

“He will forever be remembered as a distinguished personality, a man of integrity and principles. He will be dearly missed by all,” Iwobi said.

Amodu died on Saturday, three days after compatriot Stephen Keshi died at age 54.