Our History
Where Legends United, a Legacy Was Born
Every great institution begins with a story. Ours began with a shared passion that refused to fade.
The Edo All-Stars International Club was founded by a distinguished generation of football icons whose love for the beautiful game extended far beyond their professional careers. Although they had hung up their competitive boots, their commitment to football, friendship, and community remained stronger than ever.
What started as a simple gathering of former footballers has grown into Nigeria’s premier veterans’ football club—a respected institution built on excellence, brotherhood, and service.
The Beginning of an Extraordinary Journey
Our story traces back to 1978, following the historic Bendel Insurance Football Club’s triumph in the prestigious Nigeria FA Challenge Cup.
After the victory, the club’s management restructured the squad in preparation for greater challenges ahead. Several highly respected players who had served the club with distinction were transitioned into administrative roles.
For these football legends, retirement from competitive football did not mean the end of their journey.
Instead, they chose to continue doing what they loved most.
Every Saturday morning, they gathered to play football—not for trophies or fame, but for friendship, fitness, and an enduring passion for the game. Soon, former stars from other renowned clubs joined them, creating a unique gathering of football greats.
By the end of the 1978/79 football season, they proudly adopted the name The All-Stars—a reflection of the exceptional talent and experience each member brought to the field.
That historic decision marked the birth of what would become the Edo All-Stars International Club.
Today, we proudly hold the distinction of being Nigeria’s first and longest-standing All-Stars football club, earning the title:
The Premiere All-Stars in Nigeria.
The Visionaries Who Built the Legacy
The Edo All-Stars International Club was established by remarkable football pioneers whose dedication laid the foundation for generations to come.
Our founding legends include:
- Coach Jide Efionayi
- Handsome Sam
- Goziem Ikedi
- Victor Oduah (“Captain of Africa”)
- Daniel Igiebor (“Let Them Say”)
- Tony Mentie
- Bahama
- Prince Femi Duze
- Coach Wekpe (“Oslo Pee”)
- Daddy Owu (Our First President)
Over the years, the family continued to grow with the addition of distinguished veterans including:
- Ebenezer Badger
- Paul Omoregie
- Ernest Oni
- Tony Owens
…alongside many other celebrated football personalities who have proudly carried the club’s vision forward.
More Than an Ex Footballers Club
For more than 46 years, the Edo All-Stars International Club has evolved far beyond being a gathering of retired footballers.
Today, we are a thriving community dedicated to preserving football heritage, promoting lifelong friendships, encouraging healthy living, mentoring younger generations, and giving back to society through sports.
The club is proudly affiliated with the Edo Football Association (EFA) and the Veterans’ Football Foundation (VFF), reflecting our commitment to advancing veterans’ football and supporting the continued growth of the game in Nigeria.
With a membership of approximately 200 distinguished members across Nigeria and the diaspora, the Edo All-Stars International Club remains united by the same values that inspired its founders nearly five decades ago.
Our Mission
To preserve the rich legacy of Edo football while promoting unity, friendship, sportsmanship, healthy living, and lifelong participation in the beautiful game.
Our Vision
To remain Africa’s leading veterans’ football institution, inspiring future generations through excellence, integrity, community service, and an unwavering passion for football.
A Legacy That Lives On
Every Saturday gathering, every handshake before kickoff, every story shared after the final whistle reminds us why this club was created.
We honour the pioneers who built this remarkable institution.
We celebrate the generations who have carried the torch.
And we continue to inspire those who will write the next chapter of our history.
The Edo All-Stars International Club is more than a football family.
It is a living legacy.
It is a symbol of unity.
It is a celebration of football without age.
PAST PRESIDENTS:
1) Mr Owu
2) Coach Wekpe ( Oslo Pee)
3) Prince Femi Duze
4) Coach Godwin Izilein
5) Pastor Ernest Oni.
6) Prof. Kehinde Aluko.
7) Mr John bull Ekhoerutomwen….
INCUMBENT president:
Mr Eddy Osakue Folorunsho
(Maradona)
“Once a footballer. Forever an All-Star.”
Long Live the Edo All-Stars International Club.