Gor Mahia’s Deputy Patron, who doubles up as the Deputy Chief of Staff in the Executive Office of the President, Eliud Owalo, met Nigerian football legend and former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel on Saturday, 3 May.Follow our WhatsApp channel for more news The two explored a potential partnership focused on identifying and nurturing football talent across Kenya.Michael Olunga bags brace to send Al Duhail to Emir Cup quartersThe proposed collaboration, which will be anchored through the Eliud Owalo Foundation, aims to establish a robust talent pipeline that mirrors Mikel’s own inspiring journey from grassroots football in Nigeria to the global stage.“John Obi Mikel’s journey from the streets of Jos, Nigeria, to the world stage is a powerful example of what talent, when properly guided, can achieve. We aim to replicate that success story here in Kenya,” Owalo said.##NAJAVA_MECA_8903724##During their meeting, Mikel and Owalo also discussed ways to link iconic local clubs like Gor Mahia with potential sponsors to establish sustainable, long-term funding models.This financial stability is seen as key to elevating the standard of the local game and offering viable career paths for young athletes.TACTICAL ANALYSIS: Gor Mahia’s strategy that thrived in chaos against Shabana“We explored potential partnerships aimed at identifying, nurturing, and promoting local soccer talent through the Eliud Owalo Foundation with Obi. We also discussed linkages to prospective corporate sponsors for local soccer clubs such as Gor Mahia,” the message on the Foundation’s page read.##NAJAVA_MECA_8903725##Mikel brings with him a legacy of excellence. His glittering career includes two English Premier League titles, four FA Cups, a UEFA Champions League title, and an Africa Cup of Nations title with Nigeria.Owalo does not serve directly with the Ministry of Sports, but his passion for sports has warmed the hearts of many fans in the country.Gor Mahia confirm venue and date for 97th Mashemeji Derby clashHe was recently appointed the Deputy Patron of record Kenyan champions Gor Mahia. Even before his appointment, Owalo donated a bus to the team.Since acquiring his new role, he has initiated plans to acquire land in Machakos for the construction of a dedicated stadium for the team.##NAJAVA_MECA_8903723##His philanthropic efforts stretch beyond Gor Mahia. Through the Eliud Owalo Foundation, he has supported clubs such as Kakamega Homeboyz, Migori Youth FC, and Vihiga United by providing footballs, jerseys, and tracksuits.He also organised a Nyanza inter-county football tournament that culminated in a friendly match between a regional select side and Gor Mahia.Shabana gate collections from Gor Mahia match trumps prize for winning FKFPL titleBeyond football, the Foundation has been involved in various sports, like the Eliud Owalo basketball tournament held in May 2024.
