Asisat Oshoala presents new Toyota Highlander to former coach Emmanuel Osahon

Gift to a former mentor

Nigerian star Asisat Oshoala handed over a new Toyota Highlander to Emmanuel Osahon Orobosa, who serves as both chairman and head coach for FC Robo International, on 5 November 2026. This gesture took place in Lagos, the city where Oshoala started her career in football. FC Robo released a statement thanking the striker for remembering the people who helped shape her career and for presenting the vehicle as a sign of gratitude.

The presentation was filmed and shared on social media, where it attracted widespread attention. FC Robo highlighted that the gift was a reminder that Oshoala still recognises the support she received from her former coach.

Background

Emmanuel Osahon Orobosa founded FC Robo International and has served as its chairman and head coach since the club’s early days. He was instrumental in nurturing Oshoala from the age of 13, when she first attracted attention for her talent in 2009. The club’s statement noted that Osahon had provided guidance, support and an environment that allowed Oshoala to pursue her ambitions despite challenges, including opposition from her parents who wanted her to focus on education.

Oshoala’s connection to FC Robo extends beyond the early years. Following her departure from the club in 2013, the player represented Rivers Angels, Liverpool Ladies, Arsenal Women, Dalian Quanjian, FC Barcelona Femení, Bay FC, and currently Al Hilal in the Saudi Women’s Premier League as of 2026. She has amassed numerous individual and team honours, including six CAF African Women’s Footballer of the Year awards and four Women’s Africa Cup of Nations titles.

Earlier in 2026, Oshoala had already provided a bus to FC Robo during her initial period playing in Europe. The club referenced this prior gift in their official statement, noting that the new vehicle further demonstrates her ongoing bond with her origins.

Why it matters

The gesture underscores the importance of grassroots support in the development of elite athletes. FC Robo’s statement praised Oshoala for remembering the people who contributed to her growth and for demonstrating loyalty and gratitude. The gift also highlights the ongoing relationship between a former player and her formative club, reinforcing the club’s reputation as a nurturing ground for talent.

Oshoala’s career trajectory, which has taken her from Lagos to clubs across Europe, China and the Middle East, serves as an inspiration for young Nigerian footballers. Her public acknowledgement of her early coach may encourage other players to give back to the communities that helped them.

What happens next

The sources do not indicate any further actions or official announcements beyond the presentation of the vehicle. FC Robo International has expressed appreciation for the gift but has not announced additional plans or events related to the occasion.