The Second Vice President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Gbenga Elegbeleye, praised the longest-serving captain of Sunshine Stars, Abe Sunday, saying he remains a leader even after retirement.

Gbenga Elegbeleye described Abe Sunday as a young man with exemplary character, which has contributed to his achievements on and off the pitch.

The former Director General of the National Sports Commission stated this at the iconic celebration of the ex-Nigeria U-20 player, held at the Ondo State Sports Complex.

Abe Sunday was part of the national U-20 team that reached the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup in 2007.

Elegbeleye said: “I have known the former KF Tueta player from his youth. I have been with him both on and off the pitch.

“I rescheduled many things in the FCT because of him; he is truly a man worthy of celebration.”

“Abe is like a son to me; he is part of me, and today’s event is not just about Abe but also about myself.

“You all are celebrating him today, but I can tell you that I am also a celebrant.”

“A lot of soccer players are talented, but today we are celebrating our son, who possesses good character and is worthy of emulation.”

“I can assure you that your retirement is a pathway to greater things. From today, you are stepping higher.”

The Chairman of the Ondo State Football Association, Otunba Dele Ajayi, described Abe Sunday as a great ambassador of Akure Kingdom, urging younger players to emulate him.

“Abe started well and ended well. His zeal to achieve greater things is top-notch, and we are all proud of him,” said Otunba Dele Ajayi, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Sunday Aladenika.

Super Eagles coach Austin Eguavoen described Abe Sunday as a fighter whose determination on the pitch should be emulated.

Other stakeholders who spoke at the event included former Super Eagles player Mutiu Adepoju, Ganiyu Oseni, and former U-17 and U-20 player, now FIFA agent, Alfa Yakubu.

Ambassador Henry Abiodun, Chairperson of the Ondo State Football Coaches Association, along with Tayo Onilude, Vincent Temitope, and Jide Jimoh, described Abe Sunday as a rare gem whose impact is immeasurable.