ADEBAYOR PROUDLY REAFFIRMS HIS YORUBA ROOTS
By: Gyang Dakwo
Retired Togo international Emmanuel Sheyi Adebayor has spoken openly about his Yoruba heritage in a video that is drawing wide attention on social media. He appeared relaxed in the clip and he spoke in fluent Yoruba while introducing himself to viewers.
He reminded people of his background and he said with pride that he knows his roots, and he will never deny them. The video was posted on X by BBC Sport journalist Oluwashina Okeleji. In the clip, Adebayor said, “Oluwalosheyi Emmanuel Adebayor, that is me, the son of the King,” and he followed it by saying that he is Yoruba.
He switched between Yoruba and French as he spoke, and this reflected the multicultural world in which he grew up.
Adebayor was born in Lome, Togo, to Nigerian parents of Yoruba descent. His father is Adeyi Adebayor and his mother is Alice Eniola Adekanye.
He never played for Nigeria, yet he has always spoken openly about his Nigerian heritage and Yoruba identity. Many fans have praised him for showing pride in his culture.
Adebayor is the first African player to feature for both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur. He made 255 appearances for the two north London clubs and he recorded 139 goal involvements, including 104 goals and 35 assists.
His European career took him to other major teams such as Manchester City and Real Madrid, and he remains one of Africa’s most recognisable football stars.
