The Generational Kingdom Purpose Foundation Library Institute (GKPFL) has taken a significant step toward preserving the legacy of late Nigerian international, Thompson Oliha, following a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Oliha of Benin Kingdom.
The delegation, led by the Head of the organisation’s football academy in Nigeria, Sunday Enobakhare, met with His Royal Highness, Chief Edionwe Oliha, to formally seek approval to immortalise the former Super Eagles midfielder. The proposal also includes the organisation of an Under-15 football tournament in his honour.
Speaking during the visit, Enobakhare explained that the initiative was driven by the organisation’s leadership, with operational presence across Europe and West Africa.
“We are here on the directive of our Director and CEO based in Europe. Our organisation has offices in Côte d’Ivoire, Ireland, and Nigeria, with Benin City serving as our base here. Today’s visit is to inform the Chief and the family of our intention to recognise and immortalise Thompson Oliha. He was a great player, and we also seek approval to organise an Under-15 tournament in his honour,” he said.
In his response, Chief Edionwe Oliha, the Oliha Benin Kingdom, welcomed the delegation and gave his blessing to the project, noting that any genuine effort aimed at honouring their late son would receive the support of the Palace and the family.
Also present at the meeting was the Chairman of the Edo State Football Association, Fred Newton Erhunmwunse, who commended the initiative and pledged the FA’s full backing.
“We are fortunate to witness a group come forward to remember one of our own. Thompson Oliha remains one of the finest midfielders Nigeria has produced. When conversations centre on modern stars like Victor Osimhen, I often remind people of Oliha’s brilliance in his time. Even greats like Jay-Jay Okocha admired his style of play,” he said.
Erhunmwunse added that the initiative was timely, noting that Oliha’s contributions had not received the recognition they deserved over the years.
“Before now, he was almost forgotten. I am pleased that during my time as the football custodian in Edo State, we are witnessing efforts to preserve his legacy. The FA will support both the organisation and the family to ensure that generations to come understand the impact he made,” he added.
Earlier in the day, the GKPFL team had visited the Edo FA Secretariat, where they formally presented their plans to the Chairman. During that meeting, the organisation’s international PRO and French instructor, Hillary Idemudia, highlighted Oliha’s impact beyond Nigeria, particularly in Côte d’Ivoire, where he played alongside the late Rashidi Yekini and other African stars in notable club competitions.
He further noted that their exploits, including a famous victory over Egyptian giants Zamalek, played a role in boosting the profile of the Ivorian game during a period that coincided with the rise of the country under the leadership of Alassane Ouattara, underscoring the wider importance of football to national growth and identity.
Other members of the delegation included the organisation’s Principal, Victor Odegba Agho, and Evangelist Mrs Ihama, an ambassador with the organisation.
With royal endorsement secured and the Edo State FA’s support confirmed, attention now turns to the planned Under-15 tournament, which is expected to serve both as a platform for grassroots talent discovery and a lasting tribute to one of Edo State’s football icons.
