Thierry Henry’s much-anticipated visit may have come and gone, but the experience will forever be cherished by Nigerians and the ex-Arsenal star.
To add to the countless honours he amassed during his playing career, Henry can now legitimately add “King of Football” to his already glittering CV.
Indeed, the 40-year-old Arsenal legend was crowned as such at a Fanzone event in Lagos, on Sunday evening.
Dressed in traditional Igbo ceremonial attire, Henry was anointed “Igwe (king) of Football” in front of hundreds of adoring fans at a gala staged by Guinness.
As well as receiving the honorary title, the Frenchman was also unveiled as an ambassador for Made of Black – a campaign created to help inspire a new, progressive generation of African artists and performers.
Here are three things we learned from the Frenchman’s visit.
- ‘King’ Henry finally gets his crown
Even without his knowledge, Henry already had a famous nickname in Nigeria during his playing days. Known for his predatory instinct, the Frenchman banged in goals with reckless abandon, to the delight of Arsenal fans. That triggered the tag Igwe amongst Gunners fans who typically scream at the top of their voices each time he scores. Exactly 10 years since he left the Emirates, the Frenchman eventually received that honour.
- Nigerians passionate about football
Indeed, the only thing that unites Nigerians is the Super Eagles. More often than not, the country comes together to support the national team. But same cannot be said whenever their respective clubs are in action. Yet, that never really came to play as soon as Henry touched down the country. Nigerians laid aside their club affiliations to cheer and make the two-time Premier League winner’s first visit a memorable one.
- Henry knows a lot about Nigeria
Only his first visit, Henry showcased an unusual knowledge of Nigeria, its people and culture better than many natives. The Frenchman, who has always craved for the country’s local delicacy, Jollof rice, was made to prepare it himself on stage. Testing his knowledge about Nigerian players, he said: “I grew up watching the Super Eagles that in 1994 and before that a lot of Nigerians played in France, Siasia, and late Stephen Keshi.”
