Nigeria: FIFA, CAF, NFF celebrate Jay Jay Okocha on 47th birthday
Zurich, Switzerland (PANA) - Nigeria's football legend, Austin Jay Jay Okocha, was celebrated across the world on Friday as he turned 47 years.
Leading the celebrations is the world football governing body, FIFA, which described the former Super Eagles captain as a 'born-entertainer'.
FIFA on its official Twitter handle wrote: "A Super Eagle and a sensational talent. Happy birthday to born entertainer Jay-Jay Okocha."
It said FIFA will definitely have fond memories of Okocha who is one of the few Nigerian players to have featured in three editions of the FIFA World Cup.
Okocha was at the USA 1994, France 1998 as well as the Japan/Korea 2002 World Cups.
Though he surprisingly never won the coveted African Player of the Year award, Okocha was also fondly celebrated by the continent's football governing body, CAF, on Friday.
CAF described Okocha as an incredible talent who entertained millions with his silky skills.
Indeed Okocha impressed the continent with his exceptional skills; featuring in five editions of the flagship tournament, CAF said.
Expectedly, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was also not left out in the celebration.
The NFF, on its official Twitter handle, wrote: "Happy birthday to the magical @IAmOkocha Too good he was named twice. Have a good one legend!"
English club, Bolton Wanderers, where Okocha played for four years between 2002 and 2006 after leaving French giants PSG also felicitated on their Twitter page with their legend who is gradually inching towards the Golden Jubilee age.
The club simply wrote: "Happy 47th Birthday to the Nigerian Magician, @IAmOkocha."
Several fans across the world also celebrated the retired footballer.
Coincidentally, another Super Eagles legend, Samson Siasia, also shares same birthday date with Okocha and he was equally celebrated by the NFF.
"Happy birthday to former @NGSuperEagles forward and coach, Samson Siasia. Afcon winner, Olympic Silver and Bronze medalist." the Federation wrote.
-0- PANA VAO 16Aug2020
