From Left: Teka Jibril, David Regueiro Santalla, Sarah Yasamina, Ranny Al Muasher and Phadekemi pose for a picture with Mikel Obi.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Leading international residency and citizenship by investment advisory firm, RIF Trust, has unveiled ex-footballer Mikel Obi as its brand ambassador.

The announcement was made official on Thursday during a ceremony that took place at Deseo at the Opus in Business Bay, Dubai.

The unveiling of Obi as RIF Trust’s first brand ambassador comes after their successful global expansion into Africa, including Nigeria and Egypt, as well as the Middle East over the past decade.

Obi, one of Africa’s most decorated international footballers, began his career with a local club, Plateau United, before joining Norwegian club Lyn at the age of 17 in 2004. In 2006, he made a transfer to the English club Chelsea, where he played for 11 years, before moving to China to play for Tianjin TEDA in 2017.

Former Nigeria and Chelsea midfielder Obi announced his retirement last month after a long and decorated career, saying "all good things must come to an end".

Speaking on the announcement, Obi said: "RIF Trust is one of the most reputable residency and citizenship by investment advisory firms in the world, and I am thrilled to join the RIF Trust family."

In a decade of service, Obi clocked up 372 appearances in a Chelsea shirt, winning the Champions League, two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, the Europa League and two League Cups.

"One thing I enjoy most as a dual citizen is the mobility to travel anywhere for both my work and holidays. I am excited to partner with RIF Trust following my retirement from football, and I can’t wait to connect with passionate individuals and entrepreneurs who are seeking greater travel mobility and investment opportunities through a second citizenship or EU residency with RIF Trust," the former Chelsea star added.

In attendance were A-listers such as Khalid Ghanayem (Media Personality), Jumana Khan (Jumana Abdul Rahman), Diana Nabulsi, and Hammy Hassan (Miss Universe UAE ‘21 Candidate), amongst others.

David Regueiro, Group Chief Operating Officer and Managing Partner, expressed his delight over the announcement.

"We are excited about our partnership with Mikel (Obi) as our first brand ambassador because he has experienced first-hand the advantages and opportunities of having a second citizenship. It is time for you to come on board with Mikel Obi and say "Hello To Freedom with RIF Trust."