Iwobi honoured on 2025 Football Black List for community impact

2026-03-24 - 15:54

By Enitan Abdultawab Alex Iwobi has been named in the 2025 edition of the Football Black List, earning recognition for his contributions beyond football. The Super Eagles midfielder was included in the “Players – Off the Pitch” category, alongside Eberechi Eze of Arsenal FC and England defender Jess Carter. The announcement was made on Tuesday via the organisation’s official X platform. Iwobi’s selection reflects his growing influence in community development, particularly through Project 17, an initiative he founded in 2021 to support underserved Black youth. The programme focuses on football training, mentorship, education workshops, and competitions such as the P17 Cup. The recognition adds to his recent achievements off the pitch, including receiving the Baobab Award in Sport for his leadership and impact on young people both in Nigeria and internationally. Other honourees in the 2025 list include Naomi Bedeau of Oxford United Women and Shakira Waithe of Enfield Town. Reacting to the development, the Nigeria national football team praised Iwobi on social media, stating: “We are proud of you, Alex @alexiwobi.” The Football Black List was founded in 2008 by Leon Mann and others and recognises Black individuals in football who are making meaningful contributions both within the game and outside it.