FELIX OWOLABI AT 70: A CELEBRATION OF NIGERIAN FOOTBALL’S LIVING LEGEND BY TEMILADE ALOKO.
Every nation has its legends—heroes who rise from humble beginnings to shape the identity of their country. Nigeria, a nation rich in history and culture, has produced icons across various fields, from music to the arts, from culture to sports. Among these legends stands Felix Owolabi, affectionately called Owo Blow, whose name is permanently etched in the annals of Nigerian football history. As he celebrates his 70th birthday, we reflect on his inspiring journey and enduring legacy.
Born on November 24, 1954, Felix Owolabi grew up in a modest Nigerian family. From an early age, his passion for football shone brightly.
In an exclusive interview with Temilade Aloko, Owolabi shared his life story, from childhood dreams to becoming a national hero.
Owolabi’s love for football began during the era when Christian missionaries arrived in Nigeria, establishing churches, hospitals, and playgrounds as part of their efforts to spread Christianity. These playgrounds became an avenue for young Felix to explore his talent.
“My father, being a devout Catholic, gave me access to these facilities. I played with the other children, and that’s where my passion for football began,” he said.
Beyond access to facilities, Owolabi credited his success to a combination of discipline, steadfastness, hard work, and faith in God. These attributes, he believes, paved the way for his rise to stardom.
At Sabo, Ibadan he is knonw as commander a name given to him by his principal, a reverend father, nicknamed him Commander and prophesied during a Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) class:
“Felix, in the future, you will play for the Green Eagles of Nigeria.”
Another pivotal figure in his life was Mr. Yussuf, an Indian Physical Health Education (PHE) teacher who nurtured his abilities and instilled in him the value of discipline.
Owolabi fondly recalls these moments, attributing his achievements to the guidance of mentors at every stage of his life.
“I always believe that God placed people in my life to guide my path,” he shared, emphasizing how these prophetic words fuelled his determination during his playing days with ICC Shooting Stars Club.
Felix Owolabi’s football career took off when he joined ICC Shooting Stars Club, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated teams. His teammates speak glowingly of him, recalling his passion, discipline, and leadership.
Kadri Ikhana, a teammate and friend, described Owolabi as a remarkable individual:
“Felix was a great guy and my senior in football. When we first met in 1977, I thought he was Hausa because of his fluency in the language. Later, I discovered he was Yoruba. He is an interesting person who loves his friends and family deeply.”
Another teammate, Alhaji Abiodun Isiaka Salami, former Director of Sports at the University of Ibadan, reminisced about their time together from 1979 to 1981.
“Felix was a left-footer with extraordinary discipline. He was humble, friendly, and a great example to younger players. He was also very religious and never joked with any match, whether it was a friendly or a competitive game.”
Felix Owolabi’s career reached its zenith during the 1980 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), hosted in Lagos. The Green Eagles had suffered a bitter loss in 1978, but Owolabi and his teammates were determined to rewrite history.
“We were criticized heavily after our loss in 1978. Nigerian newspapers called for the Green Eagles to be disbanded. For us, it was a chance to prove them wrong,” Owolabi recalled.
During the AFCON final, Owolabi silenced his critics, who had labeled him a “one-legged player.” His 40-meter goal left spectators in awe and became the turning point of the match.
Prominent sports journalist Adewale Tijani described Owolabi’s performance:
“Felix was one of the legends of Nigerian football. His left foot was a terror to any goalkeeper, no matter how good they were. The 1980 AFCON victory was historic, and Felix played a crucial role in delivering Nigeria’s first-ever title.”
Owolabi’s commitment to education set him apart from many of his peers. He belonged to an elite group of Nigerian footballers who successfully combined academics with sports, alongside legends like Segun Odegbami, Adokiye Amiesimaka, and the late Samuel Okwaraji.
One of his mentees, Coach Babatunde Odubola (Zico), praised Owolabi’s mentorship:
“Felix signed me in 1988 and inspired us through his leadership. He took Shooting Stars from the second division to the first and produced great players like Mutiu Adepoju, Layiwola Alabi, and Seun Robbot. He was both a coach, a player and a father figure to us.
At 70, Felix Owolabi remains grateful for the blessings in his life. He attributes his success to God, his family, and his fans.
His wife, Mrs. Bukola Owolabi-Akinloye, described him as a “humble husband and a responsible father who does not joke with his children’s welfare.”
His son, Segun Owolabi-Akinloye, added:
“Dad’s name has opened many doors for me. He taught us the ways of the Lord and remains a constant source of pride. I am always proud of him, especially when people speak highly of him.”
When asked if he would do anything differently, Owolabi humbly said:
“I leave everything to God. The Felix Owolabi of today could have been someone else in a place where the system works perfectly. But I am grateful for my journey.”
Encouraging younger players, he emphasized the importance of loyalty and hard work. He fondly recalled a conversation with Lekan Salami, who once told him, “ICC is an identity and movement of the Yoruba race. Only a Yoruba bastard would refuse to play for ICC.”
This advice resonated deeply with him, and he remained loyal to Shooting Stars for 15 years, even when wealthier clubs like Rangers and Leventis United came calling.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s sports sector, Owolabi expressed optimism about the recent reinstatement of the National Sports Commission. However, he lamented the decline in the country’s sports infrastructure.
Owolabi expressed his disappointment at recent event between Nigeria and Libya.
“In our time, what happened in Libya would never have occurred. Libya is a small country. If you mess us up, we mess you up on the football pitch,” he said passionately.
“The problem with Nigerian sports today is the lack of facilities, youth development programs, and technocrats. Football isn’t about politics. Until we focus on these fundamentals, we cannot reclaim our position as the true giants of Africa.”
“Sports require facilities, infrastructure, and technocrats—not politicians. During our time, Nigeria dominated African sports.
As Felix Owolabi celebrates his 70th birthday, he remains a beacon of inspiration for generations. His story is one of resilience, humility, and unwavering passion.
“Owo Blow,” as he is fondly called, has left an indelible mark on Nigerian football and beyond. Happy 70th birthday, Felix Owolabi—a true legend and national hero.
May your legacy continue to inspire future generations.
you can watch the full interview below.