U.S. Mission congratulates Nigerian‑born athletes Max Iheanachor and Uar Bernard on NFL Draft selections

Sports

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The United States Mission in Nigeria has congratulated two Nigerian‑born athletes, Uar Bernard and Max Iheanachor, on their selections in the 2026 National Football League (NFL) draft, the premier professional league for American football in the United States.

In a statement today, the Mission noted that Bernard has joined the Philadelphia Eagles as a defensive tackle, while Iheanachor heads to the Pittsburgh Steelers as an offensive tackle. “Both athletes, now pursuing excellence in American professional sports, represent the strong connections between the United States and Nigeria through sports and cultural exchange,” the Mission said.

The NFL, widely regarded as the highest level of American football globally, consists of 32 teams divided into the American Football Conference (AFC) and National Football Conference (NFC). It is also known for organizing the annual Super Bowl, one of the biggest sporting events in the world.

The U.S. Mission expressed its excitement about the athletes’ future careers, adding: “Looking forward to seeing you on the field.”