Super Eagles and Birmingham City right-back Bright Osayi-Samuel has drawn praise and pride from his father, Nelson Osayi, Afrik Foot reports.
The 28-year-old was born in Okija, Anambra State, before moving to Spain with his family, where his father still dwells. At 10, he moved to England.
He made his debut for the Nigerian National team in 2022 and has since gone on to represent the Green and Whites in two major tournaments.
Osayi-Samuel’s father speaks on Super Eagles call-up
Nelson, in an interview with Elegbete TV Sports, revealed he was intentional about not raising his children in Nigeria, given what he experienced while adulting on the streets of Lagos.
The hustle culture, alongside the economic status of the country, which he foresaw, triggered him into making that decision.
Still, he made sure he was hands-on about making sure his children had a feel of what it means to be Nigerian.
“I’ve told my children the story of how I got to Europe, and where I am now, I’m the happiest I’ve ever been in my life.
“I was a street guy when I was younger, and I didn’t want my children to be like me.
“So if any of them tried to be wayward, I’d know. With the help of God and my wife, we raised them well. Bright is a good kid, but we made him know we’re from Africa, made him know our likes and dislikes.
“He was born here in Europe. I have told him everything about my country right from when he was even a year old. I knew they would call him (up) to the national team,” Nelson Osayi concluded.
Osayi-Samuel’s move to Birmingham City was predicated on the goal of promotion to the English Premier League from the EFL Championship, but the highest position they can attain this term is 8th.
