Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has described the rise of Nigerian teenager Zadok Yohanna as proof of how sports can change lives. He is urging authorities to create more opportunities for talented young Nigerians.
Mr Saraki shared his thoughts in a post on social media on Sunday. This came after reports that Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion signed the talented winger from Swedish club AIK Stockholm for about £21.5 million.
The former governor of Kwara State said Yohanna’s journey from northern Nigeria to one of Europe’s top football leagues shows the huge potential that exists in Nigeria.
“When people ask me why I still believe in sports as a way for youth development, stories like this are part of my answer,” Mr Saraki stated.
“Somebody sent me the Zadok Yohanna story this morning, and honestly, I had to read it twice.”
Mr Saraki talked about the teenager’s quick rise from humble beginnings to the Premier League.
“Born in Bauchi. Moved to Kaduna on his own as a young boy to chase a football dream, Flew to Sweden less than a year ago. And today, at just 18 years old, Brighton has reportedly signed him for £21.5 million, beating some of the biggest clubs in world football to secure his signature.
“Think about that for a moment.
“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.”
‘Talent is everywhere’
Mr Saraki said Yohanna’s success confirms his belief that young Nigerians can shine if given the right support and opportunities.
“This is why I will always believe in investing in young people. Not because every child will become a professional footballer, but because talent is everywhere in this country. What is often missing is opportunity, structure, support, and belief.”
The former Senate President mentioned that the idea behind setting up the Kwara Football Academy and ABS FC comes from the same belief.
“My vision in establishing the Kwara Football Academy and ABS FC was rooted in this same belief, and it has given opportunities to players like Dennis Emmanuel Bonaventure, Olusegun Olakunle, Benjamin Frederick, Mubarak Gata, David Okoromi and many others now playing in local and international clubs.”
He added, “Nigerians are an extremely talented people. That has never been in doubt. What stories like Zadok’s remind us is what can happen when talent meets opportunity.”
Need for more academies
Mr Saraki also called on key people in Nigerian sports to create a better environment for football academies.
“I encourage the Nigeria Football Federation, the National Sports Commission, and the National Institute for Sports to create the right environment for more football academies to discover talents like Zadok Yohanna, as the world looks to Nigeria as Africa’s football hub.”
The former governor used this chance to motivate young Nigerians chasing their dreams despite tough times.
“To every young person pursuing a dream that seems impossible today: keep going. Your current circumstances do not have to define your future.”
Yohanna’s incredible journey
Yohanna’s rise has been one of the most exciting stories in African football lately.
The teenager moved from Nigeria to Sweden in 2025. He quickly became one of the brightest young talents in Scandinavian football during his breakthrough season with AIK Stockholm.
His performances caught the attention of several clubs in Europe, including Newcastle United, but Brighton won the race for his signature.
The winger recently said that Brighton’s reputation for developing young players was key in his decision to join the club.
Saraki wrapped up his message with a personal note to the teenager.
“And to Zadok, Congratulations! The whole world can now see your talent, but this is just the beginning. Keep working, stay humble, and never forget the journey that brought you here. As you said yourself, ‘I know where I came from.’ Hold on to that mindset.”
For Yohanna, whose journey has taken him from northern Nigeria to the English Premier League in less than a year, the next chapter is just starting.
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