Part 2 of our chat with Lanre Vigo shares his experiences managing top Nigerian athletes, meeting football legends, and personal interests beyond the pitch.
Continuing our engaging conversation with Lanre Vigo, the sports executive who is shaping the future of Nigerian sports, we delve deeper into his experiences, passions, and philosophies. This part of the interview reveals Lanre’s unique encounters, career highlights, and personal interests outside the world of football.
Tell us about your favorite footballer you met.
Lanre: It was probably seeing Kaka. I mean, we didn’t meet but I was sitting close enough to see him running up and down the field. I had just moved to Orlando City, and seeing Kaka play in person was very different from seeing him on TV. It was amazing. Unfortunately, I had to leave before the match ended, so I didn’t get to meet him. But I think definitely, when I meet David Beckham, it will be unforgettable.
Let’s talk about the wow moments in your career, both in InterLagos and as a manager.
Lanre: While I was playing, scoring against Villarreal U18 was an unforgettable moment. As a sports agent, signing all my clients stands out because they are some of the biggest names in Nigeria. Signing Henry, Asisat, and Tobi Amusan were particularly memorable. Tobi had just broken the world record, and the timing was perfect. I called a contact, and by divine coincidence, she was right next to him. That call changed everything. Signing these top talents and securing the biggest sports endorsement deal for a Nigerian athlete were major highlights. And then there was starting InterLagos, a dream come true. We achieved incredible feats, like getting to the Super 8, one game away from the Premier League, and reaching the finals of the Lagos State FA Cup. It’s been an amazing journey.
Well done! So, we’ve been talking about football and managing talent. Tell us something else about Lanre, something outside football.
Lanre: I’m probably the biggest Marvel fan in Nigeria- I know everything about the Avengers and all the easter eggs in the movies. I watch a lot of YouTube breakdowns and love catching every detail. I also enjoy DC, although their movies aren’t as great as Marvel’s. Besides that, I love watching TV shows like Family Guy, American Dad, Game of Thrones, and Power. If I’m not working, I’m usually watching a movie or exploring new restaurants. I also love traveling and going on adventures.
Does your world revolve around football?
Lanre: To be honest, it’s hard to separate my life from football. My job is 24/7, especially with clients in America. But I make time for friends and family. Even if I’m tired, I’ll be there for them.
When will you retire?
Lanre: I always say I want to be there for my kids. Maybe around 40, so I can have more time for them.
Let’s play rapid-fire questions. Are you ready?
Lanre: I was born ready.
- Question 1: Davido or Wizkid? Lanre: Davido.
- Question 2: One footballer you would love to meet? Lanre: Ronaldo.
- Question 3: Favorite food? Lanre: Ham and cheese pizza.
- Question 4: Ronaldo or Messi? Lanre: Ronaldo.
- Question 5: Favorite place in Lagos? Lanre: Maybe Greenhouse.
- Question 6: Favorite place in the world? Lanre: New York.
- Question 7: Typical Friday night? Lanre: Either out for drinks with friends or watching a TV show.
- Question 8: Favorite genre of movie? Lanre: Avengers.
- Question 9: Amapiano or Afrobeat? Lanre: Afrobeat.
You’ve mentioned God a lot. Can you elaborate on your relationship with Him?
Lanre: I’m not the perfect Christian, but I try my best. I believe if you serve God right, there’s nothing you can’t face. Many times, God has saved me or guided me. Like the time I almost got expelled from school, but something stopped me from breaking a window. Or when I survived a car accident. I always make time for church and strive to convert others to Christ. It’s important to live a life that serves Him and impacts others positively.
And that brings us to your accident…
Lanre: I almost forgot I posted about that.
When the car started swerving, I heard a voice telling me to take my hand off the wheel. I did, and I came out of the car unscathed. It was God’s doing.
What are your go-to habits for achieving your goals?
Lanre: I start by praying and committing everything to God. I make a clear plan and stay determined. If I need to make a hundred calls, I’ll do it. Whatever good I need to do to achieve my goals, I will do it.
You have a strong can-do spirit. What’s your big money moment at Plugsport?
Lanre: Definitely the recent endorsement deal. [I can’t give numbers for obvious reasons but..] it was the biggest single deal I’ve done. I’ve done bigger figures over time, but this was just one deal. It was incredible.
Who’s the biggest footballer you’ve played with?
Lanre: Maybe Obafemi Martins. We played together at a place [private pitch] he frequents.
Your favorite Nigerian footballer of all time?
Lanre: Odemwingie. He always played with a European flair, and I knew we would win whenever he was in the squad.
What’s your biggest motivation?
Lanre: My mom, my grandma, my future kids, and the people I work with. I don’t want to disappoint them. I also want to create opportunities for Nigerians. The opportunities I missed out on growing up drive me to ensure others don’t miss theirs.
We’re bringing our conversation with Lanre Vigo to a close, and what a journey it has been. From his thrilling moments with football legends to his candid reflections on life and career, Lanre’s story has been both inspiring and engaging. His path from player to sports agent and club owner showcases a blend of passion, determination, and innovation that’s truly impressive.
To get the full scoop into Lanre’s world and catch every detail of our discussion, check out the full video and podcast interviews:
