Donate to Save Human History

The African Gourmet: Folktales, Cuisine & Cultural History

Explore Africa’s Heritage

Explore tales that carry Africa’s wisdom, courage, and humor. From river spirits to trickster animals, every story holds a lesson.

From hearty stews to fragrant grains, experience traditional African recipes and the history behind every dish.

Ancient African proverbs and modern interpretations — explore the wisdom passed down through generations.

Dive into Africa’s kingdoms, independence stories, and modern milestones that shape the continent today.

Nigerian NFL Super Bowl Champion Osi Umenyiora

Nigerian NFL Super Bowl Champion Osi Umenyiora

Nigerian NFL Super Bowl Champion Osi Umenyiora.


Ositadimma Osi Umenyiora is a Nigerian British born, retired NFL American football defensive end. Umenyiora is one of the only African players who won a super bowl and named to at least two NFL Pro Bowls.



Ositadimma Osi Umenyiora is a Nigerian British born retired NFL American football defensive end
Ositadimma "Osi" Umenyiora

Ositadimma Osi Umenyiora, was born November 16, 1981 in Golders Green, London to Nigerian parents. His parents divorced in London when he was one. Umenyiora lived in London until he was seven and then moved with his father and four siblings to Nigeria.

Moving to his ancestral home, Nigeria in Africa as a young boy, his father, John Umenyiora, in 2008 was appointed king in the village of Ogbunike. Ogbunike is a town in the Oyi local government area of Anambra State, Nigeria. 

Seeking a better education for his son, at age 14 Umenyiora emigrated to the United States to live with his sister in Lee County, Auburn Alabama where he started playing high school football.

Umenyiora is of Nigerian Igbo descent, “I feel Nigerian,” said Umenyiora, “But in actuality I’m British.” Both Umenyiora’s parents are Nigerian and raised in a home that observed Nigerian traditions.


Umenyiora married his longtime girlfriend, Leila Lopes Friday May 29, 2015 in Luanda, Angola.

Umenyiora and Lopes married in Angola Africa  

Umenyiora was drafted 56th in the second round by the New York Giants in the 2003 NFL draft. He won a Super Bowl ring, and has played in the Pro Bowl twice. On August 26, 2015, he retired from football as a New York Giant after signing a one-day deal. Umenyiora married his longtime girlfriend, Leila Lopes Friday May 29, 2015 in Luanda, Angola. 

Vieira Lopes-Umenyiora was an Angolan model who won the titles of Miss Angola United Kingdom 2010, Miss Angola 2010 and Miss Universe 2011. 

Love doesn't listen to rumors; the Umenyiora’s marriage had a rocky start due to an alleged fake Instagram account. But, as the Igbo proverb states life means that when one is fully grown he must wait for others to mature; everything has a place where it comes to a halt.

Love Black African men proverb quote.



The African Gourmet Logo.

How Are You Feeling Today? Find an African Proverb or Story to Match Your Mood

How Are You Feeling Today?

Type or tap a mood. Your storyteller returns a proverb, mini-folktale, recipe, cooking activity, and a cultural note.

⋯ ✦ ⋯

Folklore Meets Science

Folklore Meets Science
African stories that explain the universe

African Gourmet FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The African Gourmet blog about?

The African Gourmet explores African food, history, and culture through recipes, folktales, and proverbs written for curious readers worldwide.

Who writes The African Gourmet?

The blog is written and curated by Ivy, a lifelong historian and storyteller who highlights Africa’s culinary and cultural richness.

How can I find African recipes on this site?

Use the “African Recipes” category or explore posts like African Recipes for regional dishes and ingredients.

Can I share or reprint your articles?

You may share articles with attribution and a link back to The African Gourmet. Reprinting in print or commercial use requires permission.

Where can I learn more about African proverbs and folklore?

Explore our African Proverbs and African Folktales sections for timeless wisdom and stories.

African Gourmet Newsletter

Light African snack spicy popcorn

Join The African Gourmet Newsletter

Join our African Gourmet Newsletter to get new folktales, recipes, and history every month.

Includes a light snack idea every month 🍊

African Studies

African Studies
African Culture and traditions