This week, African Voices Changemakers, the CNN International magazine programme, sponsored by digital solutions provider, Globacom, will host three top Nigerian American footballers who have made a name for themselves in the National Football League (NFL).

The featured guests are Christian Emeka Okoye, a legendary fullback who played for the Kansas City Chiefs from 1987 to 1992; Kenneth Odumegwu, a linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks, born in Lagos on November 29, 2000, and 24-year-old, Haggai Chisom Ndubuisi, a defensive lineman for the Washington Commanders.

Okoye is a NFL rushing champion and two-time Pro Bowl selection. Odumegwu and Ndubuisi are products of the NFL’s International Player Pathway Programme (IPPP), which scouts talented athletes globally. Born on August 16, 1961, Christian Okoye, famously known as “The Nigerian Nightmare,” dominated the NFL as a fullback for the Kansas City Chiefs from 1987 to 1992.

Renowned for his explosive running style and tackle-breaking ability, Okoye’s impressive six-season career highlights include NFL Rushing Champion (1989), First-team All-Pro (1989), Second-team All-Pro (1991), Two Pro Bowl appearances (1989, 1991) and Three playoff appearances.

A trailblazer for future generations of American footballers, Okoye mentored notable players, including Ndubuisi and Odumegwu through his post-football career. His legendary status was cemented with his induction into the Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame in 2000.

The second guest, Odumegwu, a talented linebacker, has joined the Seattle Seahawks. A former student of the National Open University of Nigeria, he transitioned from soccer and basketball to

American football in 2022. Odumegwu’s professional career took off with the Green Bay Packers in 2023, courtesy of the IPPP.

Ndubuisi on the other hand, is a defensive lineman for the Washington Commanders. He also entered the NFL through the IPP programme and has played for the Arizona Cardinals, Denver Broncos, and the United Football League’s (UFL) San Antonio Brahmas.

The 30- minute magazine programme comes up Saturday 8.30a.m. on CNN Channel 401 with repeats at 12.00p.m. same day; Sunday 4.30a.m., 7.00p.m and Monday 4.00a.m. The same edition will be repeated on Saturday 8.30a.m., 12 noon and on Sunday at 4.30a.m., 7.00p.m. and 4.00a.m. on Monday.