Molde star Daniel Daga visits mentor Otuekong Nse Essien In Uyo

Nigeria and Molde midfielder Daniel Daga made an emotional return home on Wednesday, June 4, as he paid a courtesy visit to his mentor and football godfather, Otuekong Nse Essien, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

It marked his first trip back to Nigeria since sealing his high-profile transfer to Norwegian top-flight club Molde FK during the January transfer window.

Daga, who turned 18 in January, has seen a meteoric rise in his career over the past two years. His visit to Otuekong Essien, the founder of Carabana Academy and FC ONE Rocket, where Daga was first scouted and nurtured was a moment of pride for all involved in his footballing journey.

Otuekong Essien, who also serves as an Executive Board Member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), celebrated the visit on his official social media channels with a heartfelt message:
“MY STAR BOY, DANIEL DAGA IS HERE WITH TWO HANDS..MAY GOD TAKE YOU TO THE PINNACLE OF YOUR CAREER. WELL PLAYED MY COACH.”

The post also gave a nod to Coach Itoro, who accompanied Daga on the visit, acknowledging the role he played in the young midfielder’s development.