Victor Wanyama has praised Nigerian football legend Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha as the greatest African player of all time, adding to the long list of tributes the Super Eagles icon continues to receive years after retirement.
The former Kenya captain made the remark in a viral quick-fire interview where he was asked to choose his favourites across different football categories.
Wanyama, who previously played for Southampton and Tottenham, did not hesitate when asked to name Africa’s best-ever footballer.
He responded immediately and confidently: “That has to be Jay-Jay Okocha.” His answer reflects the admiration many still hold for the 1994 AFCON champion, whose creativity, flair, and technical brilliance captivated football fans across the world.
Although Okocha retired 17 years ago, his legacy remains firmly intact. From dazzling crowds in Nigeria to lighting up the European stage in Paris and Bolton, Okocha’s unique style of play continues to inspire both fans and players.
His ability to turn football into pure art is a key reason his name still commands respect globally.
Wanyama, now 34, named other stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Cristian Romero, and Ousmane Dembélé in different categories, but when it came to African greatness, he maintained that no one surpasses Okocha.
His comments further underline how the former Super Eagles captain’s influence remains timeless in the world of football.
