Fulham and Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi, a vocal advocate for Nigerian culture and cuisine, has revealed his love for the traditional dish of Egusi and Pounded Yam. Whenever he lands in Nigeria, the first thing he does is order this dish.

The Hale End Academy graduate, who was born in Nigeria but moved to England as a child, raved in an interview about the Nigerian delicacy.

“Whenever I land in Nigeria, the first thing I do is order Egusi and Pounded Yam,” Iwobi said in the video. “It’s a game changer…” He continued, “…Nigerian Egusi is just so delicious and comforting. There’s nothing quite like it.”

“Whenever I land in Nigeria, the first thing I do is order for Egusi and Pounded Yam. Nigerian Egusi is a game changer”

 

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Egusi, a popular Nigerian soup made from ground melon seeds, is typically cooked with vegetables, meat, ponmo, or fish. It is often served with the starchy staple of Pounded Yam, which is made by pounding boiled yams into a smooth, doughy consistency.

 

Fans have applauded Iwobi for his continued celebration of his Nigerian heritage. As one of the few high-profile Nigerian footballers playing in the Premier League, the 28-year-old’s advocacy for traditional dishes like Egusi and Pounded Yam has helped to shine a spotlight on the diversity and richness of Nigerian culinary traditions.

 

With his performances on the pitch and his vocal support for Nigerian culture, Iwobi, who has no regrets about choosing Nigeria over England, has cemented his status as a beloved figure among football fans both in Nigeria and across the world.