I’m not afraid to show who I am’: How Family and Faith Shaped Alex Iwobi, Nigeria’s Premier League Pioneer
It’s been a remarkable week for Alex Iwobi. The Nigerian midfielder has become the first player from his country to reach 300 Premier League appearances, and off the pitch, he was honored at London’s Best of Africa Awards for his social impact.
The Turning Point
It all began on August 8, 2019 — transfer deadline day. Iwobi, then 23, left Arsenal, the club where he grew up, for Everton.
“It happened so fast. It was the day I became a man,” he recalls.
Moving from London to northern England was a culture shock.
“Everything was different — the accent, the lifestyle, the football. But Everton welcomed me with open arms. That experience shaped who I am today.”
Faith and Authenticity
Now 29 and back in London playing for Fulham, Iwobi has become a respected senior figure — confident and true to himself.
“My Christian faith is part of me. In Nigeria, we pray before training, before games. I’m not afraid to show who I am.”
He says he’s learned that authenticity is strength:
“If you don’t accept me, that’s on you. It’s great that people today feel free to express their identity.”
Giving Back
Returning home to London inspired Iwobi to reconnect with his roots.
“My dad used to leave bottles of water for the bin collectors. Little acts like that stay with you.”
Following that example, he launched AleXpress, a Christmas pop-up shop in East London offering free meals and festive goods to struggling families.
“It made me realize how much something small can mean to someone.”
His kindness earned him the Baobab Award in Sport for inspiring millions beyond football.
“It’s humbling to be recognized by Africa. That means everything to me.”
African Trailblazer
In October, Iwobi joined the elite group of Africans — Kolo Touré, Mohamed Salah, Wilfried Zaha, Jordan Ayew — to surpass 300 Premier League appearances.
“I don’t often stop to reflect, but seeing how proud my parents were meant the world.”
The World Cup Dream
Iwobi now focuses on helping Nigeria qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, their first since 2018.
“We’ve been through tough times, but we have the talent and spirit. It would be a shame not to make it.”
With stars like Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen, Iwobi believes the Super Eagles can soar again.
