IWD 2024: Adaeze Yobo and Nkechi Okocha shine among football wives embracing diverse career paths
March 8 marks the globally recognised International Women’s Day, a time to honour and acknowledge women for their invaluable contributions to society, Soccernet.ng reports.
In the glamorous world of football, alongside every triumphant player stands a resilient and accomplished woman.
While their husbands dazzle on the pitch, these women are forging paths of their own, dispelling the notion that they are merely WAGs (wives and girlfriends).
Here are some of the partners of beloved former and current Nigerian footballers who are carving out successful careers in various fields.
1. Adaeze Yobo
The stunning beauty queen is the wife of retired Nigerian football icon, and former Super Eagles captain, Joseph Yobo. Adaeze, a passionate advocate for beauty and lifestyle, has carved her own niche in the industry with a skincare brand tailored to meet the diverse beauty needs of women.
The mother of three has seamlessly woven her passion for beauty into her life’s journey, having previously clinched the prestigious title of Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria in 2008. Beyond her entrepreneurial ventures, she also delves into the world of digital media, with a budding podcast, where she discusses faith-related topics.
2. Mesoma Onyeka
Mesoma epitomizes beauty and intellect. The stunning engineer is the wife of Brentford F.C. player, Frank Onyeka.
Mesoma’s professional journey is marked by significant achievements. She has contributed her expertise to renowned Oil and Gas company, ExxonMobil, showcasing her prowess in the industry. Currently, Mesoma holds a managerial position at American Express.
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Her academic credentials further underscore her commitment to excellence. Mesoma holds an MBA from the esteemed University of Illinois, a testament to her dedication to personal and professional growth.
3. Yetunde Barnabas-Olayinka
Former beauty queen, Yetunde Barnabas-Olayinka is a rising star in the Nigerian film industry. The beautiful actress is the beloved wife of Super Eagles player and SK Slavia Prague midfielder, Olayinka Peter.
Beyond being a football wife, Yetunde is a Yoruba actress who has made significant strides in the realm of Nollywood, captivating audiences with her compelling portrayals on the silver screen.
4. Isi Etebo
The serial entrepreneur is none other than the wife of Super Eagles midfielder, Oghenekaro Etebo. With a keen eye for business, the Nigerian beauty has carved her own path in the entrepreneurial world.
Isi’s entrepreneurial ventures include a successful luxury hair selling business, which has garnered attention and patronage from fellow WAGs, such as Obiageli Awaziem, wife of Nigerian footballer Chidozie Awaziem.
In addition to her hair business, Isi also owns a cleaning company that specializes in providing top-notch cleaning services to both residential and commercial spaces.
5. Nkechi Okocha
Nkechi, the esteemed wife of retired Nigerian football legend, JJ Okocha stands as a beacon of strength and grace in their marriage of over 25 years.
Despite her inclination towards maintaining a low profile, Nkechi steadfastly stood behind her husband, providing unwavering support throughout his illustrious football career. Simultaneously, she deftly navigated the entrepreneurial landscape, carving out her own path as a force in the business world.
Among her diverse entrepreneurial ventures, she owns a security company that has provided services to esteemed organizations, including banks.