From promise to progress- Dera Akogu’s journey

Chukwudera Akogu – Player Profile

Chukwudera Akogu, fondly known as Dera, is a 15-year-old footballer born in England to Nigerian parents. Growing up in Enfield, London, Dera began playing football at the age of seven, quickly developing a passion for the game alongside his love for music.

He started his journey at Enfield Youth Football Club, playing as a striker from U8 to U11 and winning the Player of the Year award every season.

In 2020, Dera moved to Nigeria for a year, where he trained and played with the AS Roma Academy in Abuja and Papillo Academy in Owerri. Imo State It was during his time in Owerri that he encountered the challenges faced in grassroots football. At the end of his stay in Nigeria, he gifted his boots to a player who had great potential but lacked proper gear. This experience nurtured his desire to one day make a difference in the lives of other young footballers.

In 2021, he joined Whitestar Academy at U12 level to pursue his dream of becoming a professional footballer. During his first season, he earned the Manager’s Player of the Year award for the second team while continuing to shine as a striker and winger. The following season, he was promoted to the first team, gaining valuable experience against top academies across the country and playing a key role in winning the league cup.

As a U14, despite the challenge of moving from London to Northamptonshire, Dera finished the season as top goal scorer with over 20 goals, even while missing several matches.

In 2024, due to travel difficulties, he joined Corby Town Academy and later Harborough Town, while occasionally still representing Whitestar Academy. Adapting to new surroundings and unfamiliar positions, he continued to grow as a versatile player.

A major highlight came in April 2025, when he travelled to Portugal for the IberCup – his first time playing abroad. His team reached the quarter-finals, marking his best footballing memory to date.

At the end of the 2024/25 season, Dera was invited for a trial with Lincoln City Academy. After a successful two-week trial, he was offered a place in the team. He now looks forward to fulfilling his ambition of becoming a professional footballer .

We’re proud to announce that Dera Akogu was officially made our UK Ambassador in January 2025. As a shining example of resilience, discipline, and belief in grassroots potential, Dera represents everything Pairs to Glory stands for. From his early days playing locally to earning a spot at Lincoln City Academy, his journey inspires hope and now, as our ambassador, he’s committed to giving back and opening doors for others just like him.