Nigerian football legend Henry Nwosu has thrown his weight behind the nomination of Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye for the annual Pitch Awards Sportsmanship category, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Nwosu, a respected coach who has managed several professional clubs, praised Elegbeleye's character and leadership qualities.
He recounted a personal story from his time coaching the U-17 team in 2008. Nwosu, lacking a car at the time, was surprised when Elegbeleye, then a member of the House of Representatives, gifted him a vehicle to assist him with his duties.
"He deserves to win this award," Nwosu said of Elegbeleye's Pitch Award nomination. Any award that recognizes selfless contributions to sports by an individual is well-deserved by him".
Nwosu commended Elegbeleye's approach, highlighting that unlike others who might use such assistance to exert influence, Elegbeleye never interfered with his coaching decisions.
He provided the support Nwosu needed and allowed him to freely carry out his responsibilities assigned by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen and Remo Stars chairman Hon. Kunle Soname are the other nominees in the Sportsmanship Award category.
This nomination comes after Elegbeleye's recognition as Sports Administrator Of the Year at the 2023 Sportsville Awards in April.
By Olaleye Oluwadamilola