Adebayor Reaffirms Yoruba Identity in Viral Video

Togolese football icon Emmanuel Adebayor has once again thrilled Nigerian fans by openly celebrating his Yoruba heritage in a viral social media video. The former Arsenal, Manchester City, and Real Madrid striker introduced himself with a proud declaration, saying: “Oluwaloseyi Emmanuel Adebayor. Emi niyen… Emi omo oba.”

In the clip, Adebayor stressed that he fully embraces his identity, stating, “I know who I am and where I am from… I am Yoruba.” His comments reignited conversations about his background, especially among Nigerian supporters who have long regarded him as one of their own.

This is not the first time Adebayor has spoken about his roots. At a novelty match organised for Austin Jay-Jay Okocha’s 50th birthday, he explained that although he was born and raised in Togo, his parents are Nigerian. “My father’s name is Adeyi Adebayo and my mother’s name is Alice Semiola Adekani… I was just born in Togo,” he said, adding that he is “fully from Nigeria.”

Adebayor also used the moment to pay tribute to Nigerian legend Nwankwo Kanu amid ongoing comparisons on social media. He dismissed the debates, saying: “I beg you people, Kanu is my idol and my god of football… no comparison needed here.”