The holidaying Super Eagles star also awarded scholarships to youths in his Okoko Item community in Bende Local Government Area of Abia State, and donated tricycles—an act that captured the hearts of many in the area.. The 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup winner in Chile, under the guidance of then-head coach Emmanuel Amuneke, is a product of the renowned Diamond Football Academy (2012–2017). He had his European breakthrough with Villarreal of Spain, where he played from 2018 to 2023.. Also Read: Ferdinand Urges Manchester United To Sign Osimhen Instead Of Gyokeres. The 26-year-old held the unveiling ceremony on Tuesday, 11 June 2025—a colourful event that brought Okoko Item to a standstill, with joy, excitement, and pride as friends, family, and dignitaries thronged to the Chukwueze family compound.. Reverend Chukwueze said he was overwhelmed by his son’s kindness. Shedding “tears of joy,” he recounted the family’s challenging past, revealing to ABN TV: “We had a rough path with hardship in the past.”. “I cried today because I remember when I had nothing and could not provide for my children,” he said emotionally.. “Then, I distanced myself from them—not because I didn’t love them—but because I felt ashamed that I couldn’t give them the life they deserved.. “Today, Samuel has brought pride, joy, and hope to this family,” ABN TV quoted him as saying.. Reverend Chukwueze also revealed that Samuel inherited his football talent from him, recalling his own youthful exploits on the pitch.. “It gives me joy to see my son succeed in the same path I once dreamed of,” he added, urging other fathers going through hard times not to abandon their children.. “Your story can still change. Look at Samuel—God turned our sorrow into dancing.”. The sprawling edifice stands on the family’s ancestral land—a nine-bedroom mansion fitted with modern amenities, luxurious fittings, and ample space for both private life and hospitality. Community members described it as a “monument of hope.”. “This is more than just a house. It is a symbol that even from the most humble beginnings, greatness can rise,” a community elder told ABN TV.. Chukwueze’s generosity did not end with his immediate family. In a further show of compassion, he gifted 20 brand-new tricycles (Keke NAPEP) to local youths, awarded scholarships, and made cash donations to underprivileged individuals in the community.. Also Read: ‘2026 Will Probably Be Joshua’s Final Year In Boxing’ –Hearn. “Samuel is lifting his people—not just with words, but with real action. He is a true son of the soil,” some of the beneficiaries echoed.. Samuel’s mother, Mrs Sarah Chukwueze, described the gesture as the fulfilment of years of fervent prayers and a divine reward for the family’s faith and endurance.. “This is a blessing to our family and our community. God has truly remembered us through our son,” she said.. Samuel’s manager, Prince Victor Apugo—popularly known as “Ngwongwo”—praised the football star for his humility and strong values.. “Samuel is a good guy with a great heart. He’s respectful, accommodating, and grounded,” he said.. “He never forgets where he comes from,” Ngwongwo added, advising youths to remain focused.. “Stay focused. Be consistent. Work hard. And above all, stay humble. Samuel is living proof that these values lead to success.”. By Sab Osuji
