A delegation from Chelsea, on Sunday, visited the palace of Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi in Lagos, in a meeting that brought together football, culture and youth development discussions.
The delegation included former Super Eagles winger Victor Moses, who also enjoyed a successful spell with Chelsea during his playing career.
Oba Elegushi received the visitors at his palace and used the occasion to call for stronger collaboration between international football clubs and grassroots football structures in Nigeria.
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Speaking after the visit, the monarch said the meeting provided an opportunity to encourage investment in local football development and youth empowerment through sports.
He said, “Today, I hosted a delegation from Chelsea Football Club, UK #chelseafc, which also included our ex-international, Victor Moses #victormoses, accompanied by the Chelsea Fans club, Nigeria.
“I am honoured by the visit, and I use the opportunity to inform the Chelsea team to support our local clubs and football academies, exploring partnerships that will benefit our teeming youths who want to play football.
“I thank them for the visit and wish them a memorable time in the centre of excellence.”
Chelsea remain one of the most supported European clubs in Nigeria, with the club enjoying a large following across the country dating back to the success of players such as Victor Moses, John Obi Mikel, Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard.
Victor Moses played a key role during Chelsea’s 2016/17 Premier League-winning campaign under Antonio Conte and also won the FA Cup and UEFA Europa League during his time at Stamford Bridge.
The visit also comes amid growing efforts by European clubs to strengthen their presence in Africa through fan engagement, football partnerships and youth development programmes.
Chelsea have previously maintained relationships with Nigerian football stakeholders through supporter groups, former players and community projects linked to football development.
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