Football
Kicking Poverty to the Curb: Finidi George's Journey From Streets to Stardom
Discover how Finidi George rose from humble beginnings to become a football icon and coach, using the sport to inspire and empower Nigeria’s youth to overcome poverty.
OLIVIER MORIN/AFP via Getty Images
Finidi George’s name echoes through Nigerian football lore as a symbol of triumph over adversity.
A stalwart of the 1994 Super Eagles squad and former Ajax, Real Mallorca, Betis striker and current coach of Rivers United, George's rags-to-riches tale serves as testament to football's transformative power.
Before dedicating his life to football, Finidi George was just like thousands of kids within the early 70s who eyed playing in top clubs in Europe and hoped to be one of the top stars they had seen.
But with football, the 1995 Champions League winners with Ajax made a name for himself and his family.
George’s personal story underscores the impact of football on his life. “I was a kid from the streets, with poverty always lurking,” he recalled during an interview with SportsBoom.com. “But playing football, starting from the grassroots, changed everything. It shaped my life, and I'm grateful. My family and I are okay today, thanks to football.”
Football's Impact From the 20th Century
“I think football is an important tool that helps youth get out of poverty,” George emphasized. “Today, you see many academies where young kids can exercise and showcase their talents. In my day, we didn't have these academies to prepare players.”
The proliferation of football academies has been a game-changer, providing opportunities for youngsters to hone their skills and escape the streets. Nigeria has witnessed the export of youngsters from the shores of the country to European and Asian countries to practice their crafts of football.
Dedication and discipline were key to George's success. "If you have talent but lack dedication, you won't make it," he stressed. "I was dedicated, disciplined, and it paid off. I'm happy today because of football."
Now, as a coach, George aims to replicate his success and empower the next generation. "I think I can do better as a coach than I did as a player," he sai
Football has put me on the world map, and I'm grateful for everything that's happened in my life
Finidi George
Leveling the Playing Field
The numbers support George's assertion. According to a 2020 report, Nigeria's sports industry contributes approximately 0.5% to the country's GDP, with football being the primary driver.
However, challenges persist. Investment in grassroots development remains inadequate, and infrastructure shortcomings hinder growth.
George advocates for increased support from government agencies and private investors.
Jeremiah Omoniyi is a developmental sports Journalist with over five years of experience writing about grassroots and international football and sporting events. Jeremiah’s forte in sports journalism are feature writing and interviews which he has done to a reasonable amount within his home country, Nigeria.