Former Nigerian international player, Paul Lucky Okoku has been recognized as FIFA Legend during FIFA World Cup 2026 activities in Atlanta,.
The football legend was honoured at the City of East Point, during an international gathering of former football stars, civic leaders and community stakeholders celebrating the game’s global impact.
The event organized by the East Point Convention & Visitors Bureau, brought together former players from Africa, the Caribbean and the United States for hospitality events, youth engagement, cultural exchange and World Cup activities designed to highlight football’s ability to unite communities beyond the pitch.
For Okoku, a former Super Eagles and Flying Eagles international, the recognition carried special significance.
“More than four decades after my international career began, football still remembered,” Okoku said. “And when football remembered, FIFA responded.”
Throughout the official engagements, participants were introduced and credentialed as FIFA Legends, a designation that Okoku described as a reminder that contributions to the sport continue to be valued long after retirement.
East Point Celebrates Football Legacy
Under the leadership of Chantel Ross-Francois, President and CEO of the East Point Convention & Visitors Bureau, East Point welcomed football legends, tourism officials, business leaders and local residents in a celebration that extended beyond the FIFA World Cup.
The initiative showcased how host communities can leverage the world’s biggest sporting event to promote tourism, strengthen international relationships and inspire future generations through sport.
International Football Icons Gather
The delegation included former Trinidad & Tobago captain Stern John, South African legend Lance Davids, former Nigerian Super Falcons goalkeeper Judith Chime, former Jamaican international Jermaine Hue and former St. Vincent & the Grenadines international and football administrator Renson Haynes, alongside entrepreneurs, football executives and community advocates.
Discussions throughout the week focused not only on football but also on leadership, youth development, education, business and cultural exchange.
First World Cup Match as a Spectator
One of the highlights for Okoku was attending the FIFA World Cup match between South Africa and Czechia at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Although he represented Nigeria internationally during his playing career, it marked his first experience attending a FIFA World Cup match as a spectator.
The match ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw after South Africa scored a late equalizer, sparking jubilant celebrations among supporters.
“The atmosphere was electric,” Okoku said. “Watching fans from different countries celebrate together reminded me why football remains the world’s game.”
Following the final whistle, thousands of supporters united in singing John Denver’s classic “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” creating what Okoku described as one of the most memorable moments of his first World Cup experience.
Historic Officiating Milestone
The match also marked a historic moment for world football, featuring the first all-female on-field officiating crew in a men’s FIFA World Cup match.
Referee Tori Penso, assisted by Kathryn Nesbitt and Brooke Mayo, earned praise for confidently managing the contest.
“What impressed me most was not their gender,” Okoku said. “It was their competence.”
Football Beyond Competition
Okoku said he found himself supporting South Africa as a fellow African nation despite acknowledging broader political and social challenges facing the continent.
“For ninety minutes, football became a place where Africa could celebrate together,” he said.
He also reflected on the unity displayed by South African supporters after the match, describing scenes of people from different backgrounds singing and dancing together in the rain as a powerful reminder of football’s unique ability to bridge divisions.
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
Okoku credited East Point for deliberately recognizing former footballers whose contributions helped shape the sport.
“Many athletes complete distinguished careers and quietly fade into history,” he said. “East Point chose a different path.”
The celebration was supported by civic and community leaders, including East Point Convention & Visitors Bureau President and CEO Chantel Ross-Francois, East Point Cultural Arts Council Chairman Nick Shah, Fulton County Board of Commissioners Chairman Robb Pitts, former East Point Mayor Patsy Jo Hilliard, South African football executive Chris Bullock, entrepreneur Dr. Prince Ero Ibhafidon and Shelley “Butch” Anthony III, founder of This Is It! Southern Kitchen & Bar-B-Q.
Reflecting on the experience, Okoku said football had once again opened a new chapter in his life.
“Football opened the first door for me as a young player,” he said. “Four decades later, it opened another as a FIFA Legend. The game changes, but football’s ability to connect people, preserve memories and create opportunities remains timeless.”
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