Arsenal’s young football sensation, Bukayo Saka, recently embarked on a heartfelt journey to reconnect with his Nigerian roots. The 21-year-old winger, born to Yoruba Nigerian parents, Adenike and Yomi Saka, took a trip to the Oro Irepodun Local Government area in Kwara State, Nigeria, to pay a special visit to his grandparents.
After the conclusion of the 2022/2023 Premier League season, Saka arrived at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos on May 31. The visit marks his first return to Nigeria since he was born in Ealing, London, on September 5, 2001.
The football star’s presence in Nigeria has caused excitement among his fans, especially in Lagos and Kwara State. During his stay in Lagos, he was warmly received by enthusiastic Arsenal supporters in Bariga, where he was showered with affection.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State also had the pleasure of welcoming the England forward to his office. The governor expressed his delight at meeting Saka and was thrilled to receive a signed shirt from the talented player.
Saka’s visit to his grandparents in Kwara State holds significant sentimental value for the young footballer. Sharing a photo on his Twitter handle, Abdul A. Bello proudly wrote, “Bukayo Saka at Oro, Kwara State, with grandparents. Proudly to be Kwara.”
Fans and admirers flooded the comments section with positive reactions, with some mentioning that they had always suspected Saka’s connection to Kwara State due to his name and even shared stories of their own experiences tracing their family roots to the same region.
Bukayo Saka’s trip to Nigeria demonstrates his deep appreciation for his heritage and his desire to stay connected with his family’s origins. As an icon for both Arsenal and Nigeria, his visit has undoubtedly left a lasting impact on fans, inspiring a sense of pride and unity among the football-loving community in Nigeria and beyond.
