Efe Obada

Efe Obada is a British-Nigerian NFL defensive end whose extraordinary journey exemplifies the global reach of American football. Born in Nigeria and raised in the UK, Obada overcame a childhood marked by adversity—including being trafficked to London at age 10 and living in multiple foster homes. He discovered American football at 22, playing just five games for the London Warriors before being signed by the Dallas Cowboys. Obada made history as the first player from the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program to make a 53-man roster, debuting with the Carolina Panthers in 2018. He has since played for the Buffalo Bills and Washington Commanders, becoming a powerful advocate for international talent and youth empowerment. He sits on the board for NFL UK Foundation and is an ambassador for NFL Academy, Big Kids, Mind Mental Health and London Youth. He’s also worked in broadcasting for BBC, ITV and Sky.