Super Eagles forward and winner of the 2023 CAF Player Of The Year (POTY) award Victor Osimhen identifies his late parents as his source of motivation npflupdates.com reports.
   Last Monday, Osimhen became the first Nigerian player to win the covetous CAF POTY prize in over two decades. The last Nigerian to win the award was Super Eagles legend Nwankwo Kanu, in the year 1999.
Also read:Â Osimhen, Oshoala, Nnadozie Wins Big At The 2023 CAF Awards
The 26-year-old in a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle reminisced on how he worked hard on the streets of Lagos before stardom.
Osimhen talks about his journey to stardom
“As a young boy who came from the streets of Olusosun, who had to hawk in traffic almost every day of the week while growing in-order to survive the numerous challenges my family and I were facing, becoming a Treasure in Africa and World Football was a wild dream. Words can’t express the joy in my heart, this is a very special moment to me,” he said.
“My football journey has been a rollercoaster of highs, tough lows and emotions. The goals, echoes and jubilation of victories keeps me going even when the critics, hate and pain of defeats hit me hard in the chest. The support of my amazing family, my fans most especially my Nigerian supporters and the love for the beautiful game of football motivates me to aim higher daily.”
Talking about the impact of his late parents in his journey to becoming a professional footballer, Osimhen identified them as his “major driving force.” He also took out time to appreciate his family, appreciating them for their ever support when the going were tough.
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“Losing my dear parents in the course of this journey leaves a scar in my heart as they have always been my major driving force for success since I was a kid, may their souls continue to rest in peace. To my wonderful family thanks for always having my back and loving me so much. I wouldn’t have made it this far without your esteemed support. To my fans and Nigerian supporters, your dedication in supporting me on the good days and bad days do not go unnoticed, even amidst the arrows of hatred thrown at me y’all still stood by my side. I am grateful,” he continued.
“Winning the CAF Best African Player 2023 is a testament of my hardwork, your love and support. I am so proud of myself for achieving this prestigious award. Thank you CAF, to all the coaches I have played under both local and international, your wisdom and knowledge have played huge roles in guiding my footballing career, thank you so much. I am sure my parents in heaven are smiling at me, this is for you.”
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He concluded by congratulating “Chiamaka Nnadozie and Asisat Oshoala for their prestigious awards. Dreams do come true! Thank you everyone,GOD is the greatest,” he concluded.
