Stephen Keshi: Enigma

An enigma, he worked all through…from one country to the other. Never waited on anyone to give him money, he was too focused to be a leech. Coached the Flying Eagles, was assistant Super Eagles coach, Togo manager (qualified them for the World Cup), coached Mali, was Nigeria manager (qualified us for the AFCON and won it. Qualified us for the World Cup and equalled our best finish). Captained Nigeria and won the AFCON; played at the World Cup. Led the way for many Nigerian and African players to Europe.

Stephen Okechukwu Keshi. No Nigerian like him. He came, he saw, he conquered. Wrote our name in gold, changed the fortunes of footballers in Nigeria and depicted what leadership should be.

Stephen Okechukwu Keshi. would have been 56 today but his candles burned out long before his legend ever did.

Keep resting, Big Boss.