For Ilorin-born footballer Ajasa Ibrahim, a childhood ambition is closer to reality after he received his first invitation to the Super Eagles camp ahead of Nigeria’s international friendly against Russia, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Ajasa is among the players currently with the national team as head coach Eric Chelle prepares his squad for the encounter, giving the young midfielder the chance to train alongside some of Nigeria’s established internationals.
His journey to the senior national team has been built on determination, as he progressed through grassroots football in Ilorin and Lagos before earning national recognition.
Ajasa previously represented Hephzibar Sports Club, where his performances in the state league helped attract attention and eventually opened the door to the Super Eagles setup.
The call-up has left the youngster excited, particularly after seeing a dream he had held since childhood begin to take shape.
“I’m really happy to be here and very surprised. This has been my dream since I was very young, and here I am now — in the Super Eagles camp with 18 great players ahead of the Russia friendly,” Ajasa said.
The youngster also expressed his gratitude to Chelle for allowing him to train with the senior national team, while acknowledging the role played by team secretary Dayo Enebi.
“I really want to appreciate the Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, for allowing me to come and play for Nigeria, and the team secretary, Dayo Enebi, for guiding me through the journey to get to the camp,” he said.
Ajasa also thanked his family, friends and other individuals who have supported his football development, singling out Idowu Ismail for identifying his talent and helping him along the way.
“I want to thank my family, my loved ones and everyone who supported me to reach this level. This is for everyone who believed in me.”
“I also want to appreciate Idowu Ismail for recognising my talent and supporting me. I will never disappoint everyone who has trusted in my ability.”
The Ilorin-born player further used the opportunity to encourage his former teammates at Hephzibar Sports Club to remain focused on their ambitions and continue believing in themselves.
“To all my Hephzibar Sports Club players, just believe in your dreams,” Ajasa added.
For Ajasa, the Russia friendly is more than just another international fixture. It represents another major step in a journey that started on grassroots football pitches and has now taken him into the Super Eagles fold.
His story also underlines the importance of grassroots football as a pathway for young Nigerian players hoping to make the leap from local competitions to the senior national team.