Super Falcons star Rinsola Babajide, newly crowned African champion, has hailed Nigerian football legend Austin “Jay Jay” Okocha as the greatest footballer Nigeria has ever produced.
Babajide’s admiration for Okocha was clear after an emotional meeting with the former Bolton and PSG midfielder, who was among the iconic figures welcoming the victorious Super Falcons back home following their historic 10th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) win in Morocco.
The Super Falcons stunned football fans worldwide by coming from behind twice to defeat Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses 3-2 in a thrilling final on Saturday, reclaiming Nigeria’s continental glory.
Following their arrival in Abuja for a presidential reception, the team traveled to Lagos where they were greeted by football legends, including Jay Jay Okocha. The occasion was part of the celebrations leading up to the team’s open bus parade through the city.
Overflowing with pride and excitement, Babajide took to social media to share a memorable photo with Okocha who was recently snubbed by Mohamed Salah and enthusiastically declared:
“GUYSSSS!!!! NIGERIA’S GREATEST LEGENDDDDD IS IN THE BUILDINGGGGG.”
For Babajide, Okocha’s skill, creativity, and impact on Nigerian football are unparalleled, setting a high standard for current and future generations.
Her tribute stresses how the new heroes of Nigerian football continue to draw inspiration from the legacy of one of the nation’s most beloved and gifted players.
While Nigeria celebrates both its women’s and men’s football icons, the meeting between Babajide and Jay Jay Okocha symbolisaes the continuity of excellence and passion in Nigerian football history.