In an endearing display of family ties and heritage, Arsenal footballer Bukayo Saka recently took time off to visit his grandparents residing in Oro Irepodun Local Government Area, located in the heart of Kwara State, Nigeria. This visit served as a heartfelt reminder of the importance of roots and the intrinsic connection one shares with their homeland.
Earlier during his journey to Nigeria, Saka had made his way to Bariga, Somolu, which holds the distinction of being his family’s ancestral home. The rich cultural heritage and familial connection of Somolu played an instrumental role in shaping the identity and values of the Saka family, making this visit an emotional homecoming of sorts.
This journey of reconnecting with his roots occurred after the conclusion of the bustling 2022-2023 football season. A star in his own right, Saka has been a remarkable player for Arsenal, and this break provided a much-needed respite, grounding him amidst his skyrocketing career.
Saka’s arrival was marked on May 31, as he touched down at the bustling Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. Welcomed by the familiar air of his country and the buzz of its vibrant city life, Saka embarked on his journey towards deeper connections and a revisit of his familial history.
This visit to his grandparents in Kwara State, a region renowned for its rich cultural traditions, highlighted his commitment to maintaining the bond with his lineage. Despite the global acclaim and demanding schedules that accompany his professional career, Saka prioritized this personal journey, proving that he remains a devoted grandson and a proud product of his Nigerian heritage.
In a world where professional athletes often lose touch with their roots due to their demanding careers, Saka’s journey back home serves as an inspiring story. It reaffirms the importance of familial ties, heritage, and the need to revisit one’s roots, regardless of how far and high one’s journey may take them.
