Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Nigerian female football starlet, Charity Njoku, has appealed to government, sports lovers, public-spirited individuals, and corporate organisations to assist her in raising the sum of N4 million required for a knee surgery following an injury she sustained while playing in Liberia.
The 20-year-old central defender from Ohuba in Ohaji Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, said she had not even played her first match for her new club when the injury occurred in 2023 during training.
“I sustained knee injuries in October 2023. I came back to Nigeria with the little money I had gathered. Since then, I have been treating myself.
“I thought it was a minor issue, but anytime I felt it had healed and I tried to resume training, the pain would return.
“This year, I went for an MRI, and the doctor said the only way I could return to football is through surgery. But I don’t have the money because I’ve already spent so much on treatment,” she explained.
Recounting how the injury happened, Njoku said she had just relocated to Liberia from Benin Republic, where she played for Phenix, and signed for Blanco Club Liberia.
“I hadn’t played for them yet. I only went for personal training to keep fit while waiting for my papers to come out,” she said.
Asked what her new club did to support her medical treatment, she replied: “They did nothing. Since it happened during personal training and I hadn’t t played for them before the injury, they offered no help.”
The young orphan, currently squatting with a relative in Umuahia, Abia State, said her biggest dream is to play for Nigeria’s female national team, the Super Falcons.
“Once I undergo the surgery, I’ll return to the field because my greatest desire is to play for my country. I know one day I’ll wear the Falcons shirt,” she said with optimism.
On the estimated cost of the surgery, she explained: “The MRI in Calabar indicated it would cost N3.5 million, but a friend told me it might be cheaper in Owerri. Unfortunately, I don’t have any money left, so I’m appealing for help.
“I want people to come to my rescue. I know I have a calling in football and I don’t want to die unfulfilled.”
Njoku provided her contact (08109131312) and bank details for anyone willing to assist:
Name: Cyril Charity Naomi
Bank: FCMB
Account number: 6003716015
