At some point, I had to sell my soccer boots to feed - Chibuike Ohizu

Posted : 16 July 2023

In the world of football, talent knows no boundaries. One shining example of this is Chibuike Ohizu, the Nigerian sensation who has captured the hearts of fans in South Africa with his incredible skills on the pitch.

Born on September 18, 1996, in Onitsha, Ohizu has become a household name in the South African Premier Division, where he currently plies his trade as a forward for Sekhukhune United.

Ohizu's journey to success is a testament to his determination and passion for the beautiful game. It all began when he showcased his talent at the Nigeria National League club, Inter FC Enugu.

However, destiny had bigger plans for him, and in 2015, he made a life-changing decision to move to Kempton Park, South Africa.

It was there that he caught the eye of Abayomi Adebayo, who saw the immense potential in the young player and recruited him to join the Future of Africa Academy.

The move to South Africa proved to be a turning point in Ohizu's career. In 2016, he signed for Leruma United, a SAFA Second Division team based in Gauteng.

His performances on the pitch were nothing short of outstanding, attracting attention from some of the country's top clubs.

One such club was Jomo Cosmos, who were left in awe after facing Ohizu in a friendly match in 2018.

Impressed by his skill and technique, Jomo Cosmos wasted no time in bringing him on board.

However, it was Ohizu's loan move to Sekhukhune United during the 2020-21 season that truly catapulted him into the spotlight.

The young forward proved his worth on the pitch, scoring goals and providing crucial assists that helped guide Sekhukhune United to the coveted National First Division title.

Their triumph earned them promotion to the highly competitive South African Premier Division, and Ohizu's loan move was made permanent.

Ohizu's impact on Sekhukhune United has been nothing short of phenomenal.

His lightning-fast pace, mesmerizing dribbling skills, and deadly finishing have made him a nightmare for opposing defenders.

Fans flock to the stadiums to witness his mesmerizing displays, eagerly anticipating the moment he takes on defenders with his trademark flair.

Off the pitch, Ohizu has also become an inspiration to young footballers in Nigeria and beyond.

His rise from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of South African football serves as a reminder that hard work, dedication, and self-belief can overcome any obstacle.

At Africa Sport Network (ASN), we couldn't help but notice the football phenom, Chibuike Ohizu, and so we interviewed him to hear from the horse's mouth how he came to attain such a height.

Speaking on how he started his football career, Ohizu said he discovered his passion for football during his secondary school years, and it paved the way for his journey in the sport.

He began his football career with junior Heartland and later made a move to Inter FC Enugu, marking the beginning of his rise in the football world.

"I started playing football when I was in secondary school. I joined junior Heartland FC, back then, when they still had the junior team.

"But there, I was struggling, until a friend of mine told me to come back home. So I took the advice and came back to Enugu where I resided at the time, and joined Inter FC Enugu.

"Even when I got to Enugu, I still found myself struggling to make ends meet. Then I saw someone who was willing to take me to South Africa. That was how I ended up here in South Africa," he said.

Ohizu added that the trip to South Africa was not so rosy. Things became difficult once again and he even had to sell his soccer boots at a time to feed.

"The sad story was that when I arrived South Africa, I couldn't locate the agent that was to pick me at the airport, and so I was somewhat stranded.

"I was then linked with a family that does some kind of business. It was demoralizing for me, because I was asked to forget all about playing football and join the family's business. At some point, I had to sell my soccer boots to feed, as I was not faring well at all," Ohizu recounted.

Ohizu, however, decided that he will pick up the pieces of his life and fight for what he went to South Africa for, against all odds.

"It took a lot of courage from me, but I had to do it. I quit the business and found my way to a place where I paid R250 every month. We were 5 boys in the room, but I didn't mind that.

"I joined the footballers on the streets, and continued training, while I did other menial jobs in the mean time. I soon started playing in some of South Africa's tournaments. That was where some agents sighted me. I was the leading goal scorer in one of the tournaments, by the way.

"I then joined Jomo Cosmos, and that kick-started my career here in South Africa," he said.

Chibuike Ohizu holds his family dear to his heart, acknowledging their indispensable role in his success. From the very beginning of his footballing aspirations, his family has been a constant source of support, encouragement, and motivation.

They have stood by him through the highs and lows, providing unwavering belief in his abilities and instilling in him the determination to pursue his dreams.

Whether it was attending his matches, offering words of wisdom, or lending a helping hand during challenging times, Ohizu's family has been a rock-solid foundation that has propelled him forward.

"My family has been supportive to the extent that they can be. Initially, my mum never liked soccer, and so she urged me to pursue education instead, but now she has come to terms with it, and renders support anytime I need it.

"And although, I am the only child of my parents who hasn't attended the university yet, I just might still get that opportunity, and I will gladly take it," Ohizu confessed.

Maintaining strong relationships with his loved ones is a top priority for Chibuike Ohizu. When questioned about his approach, Ohizu emphasized the importance of regular communication and providing assistance whenever he can.

He considers it his duty to stay in touch with his family and lend a helping hand whenever possible, ensuring that the bond between them remains strong and supportive.

"I always try as much as possible to assist my family. They are the most important to me right now.

"I also have a lot of friends in Nigeria who I keep close tabs on. Recently, they had some matches to play and I sent a token to encourage them. I know how difficult it is, I have faced it too, and I will do anything I can to help others," he said.

Playing abroad has opened numerous doors of opportunity for Chibuike Ohizu, as he candidly shared. The experience of playing in a foreign country has presented him with a range of exciting prospects and pathways for personal and professional growth.

From exposure to different footballing styles and cultures to the chance to showcase his skills on an international stage, Ohizu acknowledges the immense opportunities that have come his way through his venture abroad.

Embracing these opportunities with gratitude and enthusiasm, he continues to make the most of his time playing overseas, cherishing the valuable experiences and the doors they have opened for his career.

"Several opportunities have been opened up to me in Egypt, Tunisia and some other countries. But I can't leave Sekhukhune right now. My contract is still on and the team has been good to me," Ohizu revealed.

Speaking on his long-term goals, Chibuike Ohizu noted that he desires to play in Europe and the National team.

"I want to see myself in Europe and the National team in Nigeria. Truthfully, I work hard everyday, and I will love to represent my country very soon."

When questioned about his plans for utilizing his platform to make a positive impact in Nigeria, Chibuike Ohizu expressed his intention to assist talented players from his home country in gaining recognition and visibility.

He envisions using his own success and platform to shine a spotlight on other promising Nigerian players, providing them with opportunities to showcase their abilities and reach greater heights in their football careers.

Ohizu is determined to contribute to the growth and development of football in Nigeria by nurturing and promoting the talents that exist within the country, ensuring that they too have a chance to shine on a larger stage.

"There are many good players in Nigeria and they will like to travel abroad too. I know the difficulties I have faced here, and I wouldn't want anyone to go through the same thing under my watch.

"In the long haul, I will like to become an agent, and I will make it easy for good players to gain access to profitable teams."

He further advised upcoming players:

"Before you travel abroad, make sure your agent is genuine and has your best interest at heart, because some of them just want to collect money.

"My advice to upcoming players is to be focused. Work hard and be humble. No matter the situation or challenge, stay humble and positive," he said finally.

As the 2023 season kicks off, all eyes will be on Chibuike Ohizu. Can he continue to shine and lead Sekhukhune United to further glory? Only time will tell.

One thing is for certain, though: Ohizu's journey has only just begun, and the footballing world eagerly awaits the next chapter in his remarkable story. Brace yourselves for more moments of magic and brilliance from this Nigerian prodigy as he takes South Africa by storm.

At some point, I had to sell my soccer boots to feed - Chibuike Ohizu

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