For nearly three decades, Makanjuola Nureni—fondly known as "Muala" (meaning let’s make it together)—has quietly dedicated himself to grassroots football development in Nigeria. Working behind the scenes, he has helped young talents hone their skills, guided them toward national recognition, and offered them a pathway out of poverty, all while instilling discipline and strong moral values.

Though his efforts have gone largely unnoticed in the public eye, many of the players he has nurtured have gone on to represent Nigeria at the FIFA World Cup, the Africa Cup of Nations, and various youth competitions across the globe.

However, on June 20, 2025, Nureni finally received long-overdue recognition as he was honoured as one of the 100 Most Influential Progressive Nigerians, an award organized by Progressive Media. His name appeared alongside other prominent national figures including the Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Usman Ododo; Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; and the Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos.

Speaking after receiving the award, Nureni praised the organizers for a well-coordinated event and the impressive turnout of awardees.

"I’m really impressed with the organization and, most importantly, with the large turnout of awardees. It takes a lot to pull off an event of this scale, and the organizers did an excellent job," he said.

"As for the award itself—it came as a complete surprise. I didn’t see it coming. But when I got the call, I felt grateful. This recognition means a lot to me and to everyone working tirelessly to transform grassroots football in Nigeria and create life-changing opportunities for young Nigerians."

His daughter,Oil of God Oluwanifemi Makanjuola who accompanied him alongside other family members and friends, also shared her thoughts on the recognition.

"This is long overdue. My dad has done so much for the game at the grassroots level. To see him finally get this kind of recognition is massive—not just for him, but for all the years of hard work and sacrifice he’s put in."

The award marks a significant milestone in Makanjuola Nureni’s lifelong mission to use football as a tool for national development and youth empowerment.