Victor Osimhen has received widespread acclaim for gifting N10m to players of Beyond Limits Football Academy, using the occasion to share advice on hard work, humility and faith with Nigeria’s next generation of footballers.

The presentation was organised by social media influencer Abdulsalam Idris, popularly known as Smallie, who documented the academy in a YouTube documentary titled The Side Of Football Nobody Talks About.

Smallie personally facilitated a video call between Osimhen and the players, allowing the Nigerian international to speak directly to the young footballers about the challenges of pursuing a professional career.

Addressing the 35 academy players, Osimhen said, “I’m going to give you 10 million.”

The Galatasaray star advised the players on the importance of drawing from his own experiences rising from humble beginnings and emphasised that many aspiring footballers face struggles similar to those he encountered, outlining the three key principles that guided his journey.

“I know what it’s like coming from the trenches, especially when you play football. Many of us, myself included, have gone through the same struggles that many of you are going through now,” Osimhen said.

“At the end of the day, three things worked for me, and I believe that if you apply them, they will also work for you, by the special grace of God. First, believe in God. Second, work hard. Be prepared for failure. I won’t lie to you, failure will come, and sometimes you will be rejected. I’m speaking from my own experience.”

He also highlighted the importance of education, encouraging them to be literate, surround themselves with the right people, and channel their determination positively.

“Third, make sure you stay in school. Be able to read and write. Surround yourself with the right people. If you have a strong head like me, channel it the right way and stay stubborn with your hustle.”

Osimhen concluded by stressing humility as a vital attribute for long-term growth, before announcing that he would give the 35 academy players N10 million as a gesture of support.

Beyond Limits Football Academy, based at Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State, was established in 2022 and competes in the Nigeria National League, the country’s second-tier competition.

Osimhen’s gesture quickly drew praise on X, with Smallie (@the_smallie) calling Osimhen “more than just a footballer to Nigerians… a symbol of hope for young Nigerians fighting their way out of the hood.”

Other users echoed the sentiment, highlighting the impact of both the financial support and the advice Osimhen shared.

Damilare Joseph (@Josenidamil) described it as “a great gesture… such a wonderful way to encourage the younger ones. All the best to them.”

Similarly, @CrawfishStanley wrote, “None of these Twitter talks will make me hate this guy,” while @Royzcryptos observed that “showing up for Beyond Limits Academy is another way of putting the records straight for the upcoming players whose vision is to also be a big name as him.”

Sports journalist Fola Guerreiro (@folahan_jnr) praised Osimhen’s humility and determination, noting, “Osimhen admitted he’s strong-willed and stubborn, but it’s the same attributes he’s applied to his career that took him from the streets of Olusosun to where he is today. For the players, they’ll never forget this gesture. Bless him!”

Meanwhile, @Elprincipicutie simply called him a “national treasure,” while @MindOfNaijaLife highlighted his journey from hawking on the streets to supporting others.

Other users focused on the immediate effect of the gift. @BigDowat wrote, “My highlight of that documentary was when he sent those boys 10 million,” while @Uchechukwu29 added, “Good advice. I’m sure the money will go a long way for them as well. God bless VO.”