Mr. Patrick Ikechukwu Osuji is the President of Campos Football Club, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, whose passion to get the youth off the street led him to empowering many through football. The club owner in this exclusive interview with Lush team shares insights on his challenges, triumphs, and the future of his beloved club. Enjoy the read…
Tell us a bit about yourself
My name is Patrick Ikechukwu Osuji. I was born into the family of Mr. & Mrs. Oscar Osuji. I hail from Umunjo Irete Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State. I had my primary education at the Township Primary School at Wetheral Road and my secondary education at Emmanuel College both in Owerri, Imo State. Then I proceeded to further my education at the Imo State University, where I studied History and International Relations. I graduated in the year 2007 and finally served my Mother’s Land at Niger State, Minna, this was in the year 2011/2012 batch. I am the President of Campos Football Club/Football Academy.
What inspired you to go into running a football club?
I can’t really place my hand on one thing that inspired me. I can only say my passion for football led me to it. Growing up my parents loved watching football, while me on the other hand didn’t just watch with them but practiced what I was watching as well. At the age of 10, I was one of the best players on my street because that’s the only place we were permitted to play as children. Fast forward to when I was 15 years, I started playing active football. Due to the love and passion I have for football, I decided to own a football club (Campos FC). Secondly, I equally thought about getting our youth off the street. I think that’s it basically.
Aside God, are there role models that influenced the man you have become today?
Well, as rude as it might sound, I think I owe it to myself. What I’m trying to say is that I do not have a role model sorry to say that.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
If God permits and I get to see the next 5 years. I know I will be global.
How do you unwind?
I tend to unwind by traveling, studying and praying.
Your most memorable moment
I have couple of memorable moments but the one that supersedes them all is the moment my team had a promotion to play in Nigeria National League (NNL). That was it for me.
Describe yourself in 3 words
Humble, Understanding and a Kingmaker.
What word of advice do you have for the youths out there?
I urge all the youth out there never to underestimate their talents no matter what it is. Be it football or any other skill you are blessed with. Don’t stop believing in yourself and keep a positive mindset. It will enable you to achieve your goals in life.
Your most treasured possession
My most treasured possession is “CAMPOS Football Club / Football Academy”.
Your favourite food
Beans and ripe plantain.
Your best quote
You can never have your cake and eat it.
How do you intend to add value to the society through what you do?
It is my passion to get the youth off the street through what do and create job opportunities. I also love to help the down trodden of our society.
Do you think in Nigeria the sport industry is making progress?
Of course, it’s so clear that everyone can see.
What are the challenges you are faced with as a football club owner?
Funding is the major challenge.
Looking at the height you have attained, do you see yourself as a fulfilled man?
Comparing it with where I am going to, I don’t think I can comfortably tell myself that I have fulfilled my purpose in life as a man.
What are you grateful to God for?
I am grateful to God for my life and its journey so far.
If you have an opportunity to make a request from the government in regards to your profession what would that be?
Financial support.
Thank you for your time.
The pleasure is mine.
“I am grateful to God for my life and its journey so far.”
