Since becoming a professional golfer in 2019 and graduating from the Professional Golfers Association’s school in June 2024, Odemwingie has been promoting the sport in Nigeria.
Having started his golf journey towards the end of his tenure at West Brom in the English Premier League, he sees great potential for Nigeria in the sport at the Olympics.
“If I cannot compete as a golfer, I would love to support a Nigerian golfer who aims to participate,” he shared with BBC Sport Africa.
Odemwingie’s goal is to nurture a generation of golfers from Nigeria who can shine on the international stage, as he reflects on the honor of winning a silver medal in the Men’s Olympic Football event in Beijing 2008. He highlighted the immense respect that comes with Olympic medals, referencing the gold won by the men’s team in 1996.
Beyond the Olympics, Osaze is eager to promote golf more broadly, aiming to engage with officials and corporations in Nigeria to highlight the benefits of the sport. He has plans to establish an academy in Benin City and believes that increased access to golf courses can stimulate tourism and provide scholarship opportunities for young golfers.
“It’s essential to start early for the chance to excel in any sport,” he asserted. “My dream is to see a Nigerian flag represented on the European or PGA Tour, and I hope my journey will inspire others to get involved and encourage parents to support their children’s ambitions in the sport.”