One of the most outstanding players of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Odion Ighalo, on Friday received Joshua Aiyenuro, popularly known as T-Jos, who recently completed an incredible 154 Hours barbing run for the Guinness World Record of Longest Hairdressing Marathon.
This is the first official advocacy of T-Jos since he stepped out triumphantly from the event cubicle on Tuesday.
Addressing IGHALO and explaining the significance of the visit, the Head of the Management and Handlers of T-Jos, Amb. Blessing Akinlosotu, who is both President of the African Civil Society Forum and Executive Director of the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria, stated that some strategic invitations were already coming to receive T-Jos, however, Joshua Aiyenuro insisted on starting with the very community that gave him platform and opportunity to become a celebrity barber.
“The Marathon started exactly 10:00 pm on Tuesday, June 10 and ended exactly by 11:00 pm on Tuesday, June 17. It was so intense and challenging that at a stage I couldn’t believe T-Jos was still an ordinary human being because of his supernatural stamina”. Amb. Akinlosotu posited.
“When he successfully complimented the Marathon some invitation for reception and appreciations have been coming, but he needed rest and medical attention. Afterward he insisted on meeting with you first, when he learnt you were in Nigeria. He has spoken very highly of you and the Super Eagles family, as a fundamental source of support and help for his life and destiny, hence, decision to make you his first public outing”. Akinlosotu concluded.
In his speech, Joshua Aiyenuro thanked God for the privilege of completing the Marathon and having committed people around him. He specially appreciated Odion Ighalo, revealing that he first met IGHALO in Uyo Akwa Ibom State during the build up to the 2018 World Cup in Russia, reminding him how he (IGHALO) allowed him to be the one to handle his styling ahead of movement to Man United after signing his contract, as well as barbing the kids at Ighalo’s Orphanage Home.
“Growing up in Surulere, Lagos State, I had no life as a street kid with little or no home of becoming anything meaningful. However. God Almighty showed me mercy and helped me with great minds as my direct boss, the Team Secretary of the Super Eagles, who made it possible for me to become official barber of the National Team, where I met wonderful stars as Odion Ighalo who showed me amazing love and supported me to improve and grow”. T-Jos stated in an emotional filled remark.
“Now that I am to become a Guinness World Record holder I passionately wish to give back to society and the less privileged by setting up 1000 Barbing Seat in every State of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory Abuja. This will not just be about barbing but a venture into other Skill Acquisition for the Nigerian Youth”. He concluded.
In response, the Super Eagles Star Odion Ighalo commended Aiyenuro for his resilience although the journey and apologized for not attending physically, but revealed that he watched online.
“Since I first met T-Jos, I saw courage and a young man full of determination to succeed. I must confess, building 1000 Barbing Seat in each State of Nigeria is not going to be easy. There will be huge challenges and obstacles. However, with the spirit I see in you, success IS assured”. Ighalo asserted.
“What you are about doing is similar to what we are doing in Ajegunle, Lagos where I grew up. WE have an Academy for raising young talented footballers and helping them build professional careers. We have hundreds of Ophans and Widows under our care in our Foundation. In fact, today I just gave out packages for many of them. It is a wise idea to give back to the people and society wherein we existed. I will support you fully in any possible way to achieve your Pet Project”. Ighalo promised.