Didier Drogba - saviour of Ivory Coast

Legend of Chelsea, of his national team and his country in general, Didier Drogba has always been know as an activist, ready to give his voice, his face and his finances for the sake of his homeland.

And for his humanitarian actions done in the past, his country has thanked him in a splendid way.

Drogba has received an honorary degree from Ivory Coast university for his contribution to football as well as helping restore stability in the West African "land of elephants".

The 43-year-old has been credited with helping bring peace to the Ivory Coast - Drogba famously helped enact a ceasefire in 2005 after securing qualification for the World Cup.

He pleaded desperately to the combatants involved in the ugly civil war in the Ivory Coast, invited cameras into the Elephants' dressing room after the they fought out a victory against Sudan. Former Chelsea striker then made a passionate speech which lead to a ceasefire after five years of war.

Drogba did a lot of charity work throughout his playing career - he once donated his 4.25 million USD (460 million KSH) signing on fee from an endorsement deal with Pepsi to build a hospital in his homeland.

Didier has looked to move into football administration - he tried and failed for the Ivory Coast's football association presidency.

Chelsea legend was seen honoured as he accepted his degree - he has a thriving charitable foundation and his outstanding work in that field has now been recognized by the Réseau des Universités des Sciences et Technologies (RUSTA).

©AFP

The Ivorian immensely helped African football grow. In 2020, Drogba was awarded the UEFA President's Award, with Aleksander Ceferin complimenting the Ivorian forward.

'Didier is a hero to millions of football fans for his achievements throughout his glittering playing career,' said Ceferin.

'He is a leader - a pioneer. I will remember him as a player for his skill, strength and intelligence, but above all for his insatiable appetite to succeed - a trait which is just as present in his desire to help others off the field of play.'

When receiving his UEFA President's Award last year, Drogba gave a few words calling out the world to assist as much as possible.

'There are so many children in the developing world who have the potential to become not only footballers, but also doctors, teachers and engineers.

'This is why it is so important to help and support our youngsters to let them fulfil their dreams and aspirations.'