Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has congratulated Nigerian football prodigy Zadok Yohanna following reports of his £21.5 million transfer to English Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion.
In a statement shared on Monday, Saraki described Yohanna’s journey as an inspiring example of how talent, discipline, and determination can transform lives.
According to Saraki, the 18-year-old footballer was born in Bauchi State before relocating to Kaduna in pursuit of his football ambitions. He noted that Yohanna moved to Sweden less than a year ago and has now reportedly secured a high-profile transfer to Brighton, with the club said to have beaten several top European sides to sign him.
“Stories like this are part of the reason I continue to believe in sports as a pathway for youth development,” Saraki said, adding that Yohanna’s rise demonstrates what can happen when talent is matched with opportunity and support.
The former Senate President stressed that Nigeria is home to immense talent across various sectors, particularly sports, but often lacks the structures and opportunities needed to nurture young people to their full potential.
Saraki said his commitment to youth development informed the establishment of the Kwara Football Academy and ABS Ilorin FC, institutions he noted have helped produce footballers such as Dennis Emmanuel Bonaventure, Olusegun Okanlawan, Benjamin Frederick, Mubarak Gata, and David Okoromi, among others currently playing in local and international leagues.
He called on the Nigeria Football Federation, the National Sports Commission, and the National Institute for Sports to create an enabling environment for the establishment of more football academies across the country.
According to him, such initiatives would help identify and develop more talents like Yohanna as Nigeria continues to strengthen its position as a leading football destination in Africa.
Saraki also encouraged young Nigerians pursuing their dreams not to be discouraged by current challenges, emphasizing that their present circumstances do not have to determine their future.
He concluded by congratulating Yohanna on his reported achievement and urged the youngster to remain focused and grounded as he embarks on the next phase of his football career.
“Keep working, stay grounded, and never forget the journey that brought you here,” Saraki stated. “The whole world can now see your talent, but this is only the beginning.”
About The Author
