As Nigerian NFL players, the bond shared between Ravens Odafe Oweh, Nnamdi Madubuike, and David Ojabo goes well beyond their shared desire to hit quarterbacks.
Over the weekend, the three players inspired the next generation of African football players back "home" in Lagos, Nigeria, as Oweh hosted a two-day football camp for more than 100 kids.
The camp, organized by Oweh's Foundation for Opportunity (OFFO), included many kids who are already part of a flag football program as the sport continues to grow internationally. It's the second straight year that Oweh has hosted the camp and he plans to do it again next summer.
"You see a kid like that naturally taking instruction and succeeding, that's what it's all about," Oweh said. "I'm happy that I get to do that."
Oweh was born in New Jersey, but his father was born in Nigeria and his mother, born to Nigerian parents in London, moved back to Africa in her youth. His Nigerian roots run deep, which led Oweh to declaring that he would go by his given name, Odafe, instead of his middle name, Jayson, when he was first drafted.
Madubuike has a similar background, born in Texas to Nigerian parents. He also further embraced his heritage when he started going by Nnamdi instead of Justin. It was Madubuike's first time in Nigeria.
"With the right support, these kids can earn scholarships and play college football in the U.S.," Madubuike told Sports247 Nigeria. "This camp is planting seeds for future success stories."
Ojabo was born in Nigeria and his family moved to Scotland when he was 7 years old.
"This is just the beginning," Ojabo said. "Seeing these kids out here working hard and having fun reminds me of why initiatives like this matter. Odafe is doing something truly special."
Ravens Productions had a crew in Lagos to document the football camp, Oweh's family reunion, and his bond with Madubuike and Ojabo. Stay tuned for a full feature later this summer.
