Victor Osimhen: Lessons to Learn for Aspiring Student Athletes

Grace Dolor

Victor Osimhen, Nigerian striker, making waves in international football, is an inspiration to many Nigerians. His journey from hawking in Lagos traffic, to being a Serie A star in Napoli is a reflection of not just talent, but also hard work, work ethics, and commitment towards his craft. Student athletes, and young Nigerians in general, have a couple of things to learn from the talented striker.

One of the most important ones is resilience. Osimhen’s early life was not exactly pleasant. To be more explicit, he sold sachet water and newspapers in traffic in Ojota, Lagos, to support his family. He revealed in a recent interview with Korty on YouTube that he even had to fetch water for his neighbours because his family’s financial situation was “tough”.

Coming from this background to becoming a highly sought-after striker must have required resilience and a lot of determination. Student athletes should learn from his ability to stay focused despite challenging circumstances.

He didn’t rely on his resilience alone, but he added dedication and hard work. Osimhen’s success is not accidental. He was very dedicated to football training and improving his skill even as a naturally talented player. For athletes, this proves the importance of dedication. Success in sports, just like in academics, requires consistent effort and a willingness to put in the hard work even when it feels difficult.

Adaptability and growth are also key factors in his success. Osimhen’s career took him from Nigeria to Germany, Belgium, France, and Italy. At each stage, he had to adapt to new styles of play, cultures, and expectations. Student athletes should embrace change and be willing to step out of their comfort zones. 
 
He didn’t also neglect the place of magnanimous teamwork. While Osimhen’s talent is undeniable, his success is also a product of his ability to work with a team. He understands the importance of collaboration, communication, and supporting his teammates. Teamwork, usually, is an issue for talented young athletes in local teams. As an athlete, you should understand that sports is not just about individual achievements, but also about working with your team and contributing to the collective success of the team.

Importantly also, Osimhen is known for his sportsmanship, humility, and positivity. He claims that he is not fazed by fame and even encourages humility. Despite his success in professional football, he still maintains his relationships with his friends from his days in Ojota.