Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has revealed that the best advice he ever received came from his uncle and former football icon Jay-Jay Okocha, who encouraged him to play with freedom and confidence throughout his career.

Speaking on The High Performance Podcast, Iwobi explained that the key message he carried through his career was simplicity and self-expression.

“Express yourself. Don’t be afraid to express yourself. I got it from my uncle, Jay-Jay Okocha. He said it to me once, and I literally just watched how he lived his life,” Iwobi said.

Iwobi described how observing Okocha both on and off the pitch shaped his football philosophy.

He added, “And obviously I'm lucky because he's my uncle. I used to see him off the pitch as well as on the pitch.”

The midfielder also recalled visiting Okocha during his time in England, where the former Nigerian playmaker was playing for English club Bolton Wanderers

Iwobi described Okocha’s playful and confident personality even in professional environments.

“I remember one time I went to the Bolton training ground, and Sam Allardyce, a serious manager who doesn't really joke around like that, and he's just dancing and coming to kick the ball at me,” Iwobi said.

He continued by highlighting how Okocha’s teammates recognised his unique personality.

“Ivan Campo and Kevin Nolan said, 'Jay-Jay' and he's just in his own world.”

Iwobi also spoke about family gatherings during festive periods, where Okocha’s love for football and joy on and off the field remained evident.

“And when it’s Christmas and we're back home, he's just dancing. He was the definition of 'express yourself', always play football with a smile on your face.”

Reflecting on what he learned from the football legend, Iwobi said the advice went beyond sport.

“When I watch him, I learn to be yourself, so that’s where I got it from.”

Iwobi came through the youth system of Arsenal before going on to play for Everton and later Fulham.

Known for his creativity, technical ability, and attacking vision, Iwobi has become one of Nigeria’s most expressive modern midfielders, often drawing comparisons to Okocha’s style of play.

Wale Adejumo