Ilutitun youths have hailed their son, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, for his contribution to Nigeria’s bronze medal finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Akinsanmiro, born 25 November 2004 in Lagos, is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Italian Serie A club Pisa, on loan from Inter Milan. He began his career at the Beyond Limits Academy and Remo Stars in Nigeria before moving to Europe, where he signed for Inter Milan in January 2023 and later spent a season on loan at Sampdoria. For the 2025–26 season, he joined Pisa on loan with an option to buy and a buy-back clause for Inter.
The midfielder’s strong performances in Italy, including regular Serie A appearances and impactful displays, earned him a place in Nigeria’s final 28-man squad for the AFCON tournament.
At AFCON 2025, the Super Eagles progressed to the semi-finals before missing out on the final. They went on to secure the bronze medal, defeating Egypt 4–2 on penalties after a 0–0 draw in the third-place play-off in Casablanca, extending Nigeria’s unbeaten record in bronze-medal matches at the competition.
In a statement issued by the Ilutitun Youth Development Forum (IYDF) and signed by its President, Dip. Bankole Ogunbamerun, the youths described Akinsanmiro’s achievement as a source of great pride that has brought honour to Ilutitun Osooro, Ondo State, and the nation.
The Forum said his rise from local academy football to the continental stage reflects resilience, discipline, and exceptional talent, and serves as inspiration to young athletes in the community.
Plans are underway to accord Akinsanmiro a hero’s welcome on his return to Ilutitun.
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