Pan-African broadcast network, Kwesé, has signed Fifa World Cup-bound John Obi Mikel, captain of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, as its first official brand ambassador.
According to a statement signed by Econet Media-owned Kwese Television (TV) country manager Wonder Msiska, the former Uefa Champions League and English Premier League winner will represent the broadcaster’s services and initiatives across the continent, starting with the upcoming 2018 World Cup in Russia this month.
Mikel won the Champions League (2012) and Europa League (2013) as a Chelsea player. He played for the Blues as a midfielder for a decade, making 374 appearances.
His accolades include being a two-time recipient of the African Young Player of the Year Award as well as Chelsea’s Young Player of the Year (2007/2008).
“Considered one of Nigeria’s most accomplished players, Mikel will feature in Kwesé’s upcoming advertising campaigns that will encompass print, television and radio,” he said.
Joseph Hundah, president and group chief executive officer of Econet Media, stated that in choosing the right personality to partner with their brand, they wanted someone that embodies what the firm stands for as an African broadcaster.
“Mikel represents exceptional sporting talent and is loved by fans across the continent. His commitment to excellence and his work to improve the sporting talent of the next generation of athletes made him the perfect choice for us,” he said.
Hundah further explained that as part of the partnership with Mikel, Kwesé will join a list of international bodies and associations that invest in growing the network of the Mikel Obi Africa Children’s Sports Foundation academies across the continent.
On his part, Mikel is quoted as having said: “It is a pleasure and honour to become the official ambassador of Kwesé TV, a subsidiary of Econet Media. Just like in my football career, it was important for me to represent an organisation that puts fans and customers first apart from being powerful, strong and, most importantly, consistent winner.”
Having launched its service in 2016, Kwesé has been one of the continent’s fastest growing media business with a diversified offering that includes Africa’s largest free-to-air channel Kwesé Free Sports, mobile services, digital and a pay TV satellite network all under one roof. n
