Former Enyimba International, Nigerdock, and NEPA FC player Uchechi Njoku has shared how he successfully transitioned from professional football to launching a thriving fashion company.
In an exclusive interview with Silvernews.com.ng, the dynamic midfielder, popularly known as Ngolo-Ngolo, revealed that he founded Uchechi Njoku Ngolo-Ngolo Culture & Fashion Limited after drawing early inspiration from his mother, who mentored him in fashion during his teenage years.
Encouraging Nigerians not to lose hope in their pursuit of success, Njoku emphasized the importance of perseverance and giving back to society, noting that his philanthropic efforts have helped rescue several youths from the streets.
“I was already involved in fashion when I was young. I used to go to my mother’s shop on Azikiwe Road in Aba. Even after football, I would return there to work on Agbada outfits. That’s when I realized there is life after football,” Njoku recounted.
“After spending some time in Abuja, I worked with top fashion brands, played for Enyimba Feeders, moved to Umuahia, and later joined Lagos NEPA. Football gives you a strict orientation — it teaches discipline, independence, and the need to prove yourself.”
He continued, “The passion and skill for fashion were always in me. I even attempted to further my education in Italy. Fashion is a lucrative industry, especially in a populous country like Nigeria. We’ve been in this for over ten years now, and we are also running a fashion school to help take youths off the streets. Fashion isn’t just about making money — it’s about empowering others.”
Njoku expressed gratitude for his progress and revealed plans for an upcoming fashion show in Lagos in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz, a move he described as a “major milestone” for his brand.
“We are proud to be collaborating with Mercedes to host an exclusive fashion show in Lagos. It’s a great opportunity to merge elegance, innovation, and African culture on a global stage,” he said. “We thank God for where we are today. Don’t lose hope — the future is yours. This is a blessed country.”
Speaking on the recent Super Eagles performances in the Unity Cup and their international friendly against Russia, Njoku applauded the inclusion of home-based players, saying it would uplift the local league.
“The inclusion of home-based players is a great motivation for those in the Nigerian league. It shows them that their efforts can earn them a place in the national team. This inspires professionalism and fuels ambition,” he said.
“The game against Ghana was particularly physical — something the home-based players excel at. They showcased their talent and proved themselves.”
Lastly, Ngolo-Ngolo revealed plans to organize a novelty football match in honor of his late father in his hometown of Mbaise.
“My father was a great lover of football — a jovial man with a heart full of excellence. We are laying him to rest on August 13th and 14th, and we’re planning to host a memorial match in his honor using his old team.”
