"There is life after football" Akufo Addo tells footballers

The eloquent head of state gave the advice during his welcome speech at the 2017 CAF Awards held on Thursday night in Accra, Ghana.

There is life after football

Addressing the gathering at the Accra International Conference Centre, Nana Akufo sent his congratulatory message to the President-elect of Liberia, George Weah, who was represented by his wife, Clar.  The president sent a message through Mrs. Weah to the former African and World Best Footballer.

“Madam, please tell your husband the football world is proud of him,” Nana Addo said.

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Akufo Addo also expressed his admiration for the passion of Liberia's President-elect, George Weah who has been able to secure a political life after his glorious football years with AC Milan which saw him win the World Best Footballer award in 1995.

In what seems to be a timely word for athletes, the President said, “There is life after football and there are many career paths one can opt for in order to continue making an impact on society.”

There have been many cases of footballers that have not been able to survive after their retirements with many having to struggle after football, the recent being the case of Ivorian and Arsenal star, Emmanuel Eboue.

The president also highlighted some virtues needed for success in sports.

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“His [George Weah’s] is one to which I can relate with. It is one of perseverance, fortitude and determination. These are virtues every young footballer must emulate,” the president said.

The ceremony saw Egyptian and Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah win the ultimate award as the 2017 CAF African Player of the Year ahead of Sadio Mane and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

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