Odafe Oweh is a talented American football linebacker selected by the Baltimore Ravens 2021 NFL draft. He signed his 4-year rookie contract on June 10, 2021, and quickly made an impact as a defensive end. However, the player known for his speed and agility on the field was once insecure about his first name. Why? Because he thought his Nigerian first name was tough to pronounce. 

His parents, Tania and Henry Oweh, and his culture have shaped him into what he is today. He expressed his thoughts after his selection in the NFL draft stating “I just felt how far I came, how far my parents have came, and the culture, and the heritage I grew up in … It’s really how I got to where I am today,” and told everyone that he now wanted to go by his Nigerian first name Odafe.

So, let’s explore more about his parents.

Who Are Odafe Oweh’s Parents?

Notably, Odafe’s parents, Henry and Tania, both have strong Nigerian roots. His father was born in Nigeria and his mother moved there at age 7 for school. After spending years there, they shifted to the United States and opened a medical supply store. They wanted to give their son a name that honored their African heritage and symbolized the American dream. 

His name strongly reflects his personality, and that’s what his mother wanted. “You come here, you work hard, and you make it, and so that was what we projected,” Tania said. His father, Henry, is a leading entrepreneur and his mother, Tania, is an attorney.

Apart from being a positive influence in his career, Odafe’s parents instilled a moral upbringing and a strong work ethic. Likewise, Odafe Oweh was driven to basketball and wanted to join the NBA growing up. Before his junior year, he was admitted to Blair Academy. Even though he did not want to distract himself, he had to choose football because a student had to play two sports at Blair.

He met David Ojabo, a Nigerian American Football Linebacker in the same academy. The Ravens drafted him in 2022 and became a positive addition to the team because of his pass-rushing ability. He managed to record his first career sack during a crucial game against the Cincinnati Bengals in January 2023, showcasing the pass-rushing talent that makes him a versatile player.

Why do Ojabo and Odafe Oweh Feel Connected?

In Blair Academy, Odafe and Oweh shared the same dorm on a small boarding school campus. Both became friends instantly because of their shared background. They bonded over family conversations, spent time together, and enjoyed playing ping pong and billiards. When asked about David, the NFL 2021 draft said, “He’s not my friend. He’s really like my brother,” expressing his values in Oweh’s life. 

The story expresses the importance of family, culture, and the values passed down from generation to generation. His parents gave him a wonderful upbringing and guided him down the right path. His bond with Ojabo shows how shared experiences and strong connections can shape a person’s path.

And, of course, his success reflects the love, support, and guidance provided by his family and culture.