Former Valencia and Osasuna star who dumped Spain for Nigeria uplifts widows in Lagos

Former Valencia and Osasuna midfielder Sunday Stephen has turned his focus to philanthropy, uplifting widows and vulnerable children in Lagos through his foundation, Soccernet.ng reports.

As part of its year-end outreach, the Sunday Stephen Miram Orphanage donated 15-kilogramme bags of food to widows at the Mountain of Fire Ministry, Region 31, Ojodu Berger.

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The initiative put together by Stephen, who famously chose Nigeria over Spain at the international level, was designed to provide a dignified and joyful holiday season for widows in the community.

Speaking at the event, former Real Betis star Stephen outlined the foundation’s mission.

“Our goal is to restore hope, dignity, and opportunities for a brighter future,” he said as per TV360 Nigeria. 

“Today’s event marks yet another occasion where we are distributing rice as an end-of-year gesture of goodwill to families in need, ensuring the widows in our community can enjoy the yuletide season.

“Our mission at the orphanage is to provide a safe, loving, and supportive environment for orphans, widows, and vulnerable children, helping them grow emotionally, physically, and intellectually. Through our work, we strive to restore hope, dignity, and opportunities for a brighter future.”

Stephen’s football journey is just as inspiring as his charitable efforts.

Born in Nigeria, he initially represented Spain at the U19, U20 and U21 levels, even appearing at the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

However, he later switched allegiance to Nigeria, making his Super Eagles debut in a 2012 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

On the club front, Stephen enjoyed a career spanning Valencia, Osasuna, Real Betis, Real Salt Lake, and CSKA Sofia, among others.

With Valencia, he lifted the Copa del Rey in 2008, though injuries and limited opportunities led to loan moves, including stints with Real Betis and Bnei Sakhnin.

After a career that saw him ply his trade across Europe, Israel, and the United States, he retired in 2020.