Felix Owolabi Remarkable Journey At A Glance
Dr. Felix Owolabi Akinloye, fondly known as “Owoblow,” is a paragon of modesty, humility, and unassuming disposition. Born on January 24, 1954, in Inisha, Osun State, Nigeria, Owolabi’s early life was shaped by his Catholic upbringing and education at the United Nations Primary School in Kaduna.
Owolabi attended Government Secondary School Dutse-ma and later the Teacher’s Training College in Kaduna. He pursued higher education at the University of Lagos, earning a degree in Physical Education and Health Education in 1978, followed by a master’s in Sports Management, and ultimately, a Ph.D. in Sports Management.
Owolabi’s football journey began in primary school, participating in the Sardauna Cup. He joined Kaduna Rocks FC and later played for Raccah Rovers of Kano before being spotted by the Green Eagles in 1977. His versatility as a player earned him recognition, playing as a midfielder in the 1980 Nation’s Cup, which Nigeria won for the first time.
Owolabi’s impressive football career is marked by several notable achievements, including 1980 AFCON Winner, Key player in Nigeria’s maiden African Cup of Nations victory, 1978 African Cup of Nations where he helped nigeria secure third place, CAF Cup (1992), Led IICC Shooting Stars to victory.
He won the league with Kaduna Rocks (1976) and IICC Shooting Stars (1983).
He equally won silver and bronze medals at various national and international competitions.
Owolabi transitioned into coaching after retiring, attending a football coaching course in England sponsored by Chief Lekan Salami in 1986. He excelled as a coach, discovering talented players like Mutiu Adepoju and Tunde Odubola. Owolabi was part of the technical crew that brought Shooting Stars out of relegation in 1988 and led the team to win the CAF Cup in 1992.
Owolabi’s leadership skills have been recognized through various appointments, including Member of the NFF Technical Committee, Board member of Shooting Stars (2006), Board member of the Nigeria Premier League of Nigeria, Board member of Shooting Stars (2009), appointed by former Oyo State Governor, Late Alao AKala.
Owolabi’s humble beginnings, shaped by his Catholic upbringing and education, have instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and hard work. His dedication to his craft and passion for football have earned him numerous accolades and respect from his peers.
Dr. Felix Owolabi’s legacy extends beyond his impressive football career. He has inspired generations of Nigerian footballers and coaches, and his contributions to the development of Nigerian football are invaluable.
Owolabi’s achievements have been recognized through various honors and awards, including his doctorate degree in Physical Education. His commitment to excellence and dedication to Nigerian football have cemented his place in the annals of Nigerian sports history.
Dr. Felix Owolabi Akinloye’s remarkable life journey, marked by humility, hard work, and dedication, serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers, coaches, and administrators. His legacy continues to shape Nigerian football, and his contributions will be remembered for generations to come.
Credit: Boluwaji Ogunmola .