Saraki urges investment in youth sports after Yohanna’s remarkable rise to the Premier League

Former Nigerian Senate President Bukola Saraki has pointed to the rapid ascent of teenager Zadok Yohanna to the Premier League as a powerful testament to the potential of sports in youth development. Yohanna's reported £21.5 million transfer to Brighton & Hove Albion from Swedish club AIK Stockholm has captured attention, underscoring the vast talent pool within Nigeria.

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When people ask me why I still believe in sports as a pathway for youth development, stories like this are part of my answer.

Saraki shared Yohanna's story, emphasizing his journey from Bauchi in northern Nigeria to playing in one of Europe's top leagues at just 18 years old. "A teenager from northern Nigeria, armed with little more than talent, discipline and determination, has forced his way into one of the most competitive talent markets on earth," Saraki wrote on social media, reflecting on the winger's remarkable achievement.

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Somebody sent me the Zadok Yohanna story this morning, and honestly, I had to read it twice.

The former Kwara State governor stressed that such success stories reinforce his belief in investing in young Nigerians. "Talent exists everywhere in this country. What is often missing is opportunity, structure, support, and belief," he stated. He drew parallels to his own initiatives, like the Kwara Football Academy and ABS FC, which have provided platforms for numerous players to advance their careers locally and internationally.

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A teenager from northern Nigeria, armed with little more than talent, discipline and determination, has forced his way into one of the most competitive talent markets on earth.

Saraki appealed to key sports bodies, including the Nigeria Football Federation and the National Institute for Sports, to foster an environment conducive to the growth of football academies. He believes these academies are crucial for identifying and developing the next generation of Nigerian athletes, transforming lives through sport.

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This is why I will always believe in investing in young people. Not because every child will become a professional footballer, but because talent exists everywhere in this country. What is often missing is opportunity, structure, support, and belief.