Alex Iwobi, midfielder for the Super Eagles and Fulham FC, has been named in the 2025 Football Black List, earning recognition for his outstanding contributions off the pitch.
The 29-year-old was included in the “Players – Off the Pitch” category, alongside Eberechi Eze of Arsenal FC and England defender Jess Carter.
Celebrating Impact Beyond Football
The Football Black List, founded in 2008, celebrates Black footballers who leverage their influence for social good, community development, and philanthropy.
Iwobi’s recognition highlights his growing reputation not just as a footballer, but as a changemaker off the field.
Project 17 Drives Change
Central to his inclusion is Project 17, an initiative he launched in 2021 to support underserved Black youth.
Through the programme, Iwobi has delivered:
- Football training clinics
- Educational workshops
- Mentorship programmes
- Community tournaments, including the P17 Cup
The initiative focuses on empowering young people with skills, opportunities, and positive role models both in Nigeria and abroad.
Growing Recognition
Iwobi’s off-field efforts have also earned him the Baobab Award in Sport, recognising his leadership and commitment to youth development.
Other names featured in the 2025 list include Naomi Bedeau and Shakira Waithe, further highlighting the breadth of Black excellence across football.
National Pride
Nigeria’s national team, the Super Eagles, celebrated the achievement on social media, praising Iwobi for representing the country positively beyond football.
A Platform for Purpose
Founded by Leon Mann and partners, the Football Black List continues to spotlight players who are using football as a platform to drive meaningful social impact.
Iwobi’s latest recognition underscores a broader shift in modern football, where influence is increasingly measured not just by performances on the pitch, but by the ability to inspire change off it.
