Renowned grassroots football coach Nnenna Joy Etim has passed on after she lost her battle with sick.
She is already being missed by her players, colleagues and well wishers.
On Friday 18 October 2024 she would be honoured with a night of tribute at the Hockey Pitch of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos followed with service of songs before being laid to rest on October 25, 2024 in her home town Ebem Ohafia in Abia State.
Pastor Oscar Emmanuel Etim pays a glowing tribute.
“She was my dear sister and colleague in grassroots football development. We worked together actively in many sports committees, where I was involved in youth development and she with female players.
“She was totally dedicated, devoted and committed to the task of discovering and nurturing young football talents, both female and male.
“She was Nigeria’s first female graduate in football coaching at the National Institute for Sports (NIS). That made her a pioneer of female football coaching profession in Nigeria.
“She was the mother-general of many biological and sports children. A woman who housed many other peoples’ children from different mothers, families and tribes.
“She would discomfort herself and her family in order to take care of the numerous children that came to her for mentoring. She was indeed special and virtuous.
“The writer of Proverbs 31:10-31 must have had her in mind while highlighting various values of the virtuous woman. Coach Nnenna Joy Etim was a virtuous woman indeed.
“Dear Coach Joy, we miss you at a time we need you most, but God loves you more.
“As we celebrate her passing to eternal glory, I appreciate those of her blood that she left behind.
“I thank God that she successfully handed over to you and that you are doing your best to improve her legacy.
“To you all, TM, Mr Michael Etim, Ekaete Comfort Etim and the ace sports commentator from Nigeria Info FM radio station, Emmanuel Etim. Everyone in the larger Etim Family, take heart.
“On behalf of my family, as well as Community Action Through Sport (CATS) and Nigeria Grassroots Football Federation (NGFF), we mourn our departed colleague my condolences her family members.
” Coach Joy chose Jesus Christ as her Lord and personal saviour before she died. His angels are waiting to receive her in Father Abraham’s bossom. Halleluyah Hossanah.
“Mother Theresa of our nation, Nigeria. Deborah of our generation. Fearless and honest defender of the oppressed, coach of coaches. Farewell, till we meet in heaven eternal, as your soul continues resting peacefully.”
