My heart is in Nigeria

Karim Adeyemi founded the Karim Adeyemi Foundation (KAF) in Nigeria to transform the lives of underserved communities by empowering children and youths to become change agents

Borussia Dortmund forward, Karim Adeyemi, landed in Nigeria recently, returning to Ibadan to witness the Karim Adeyemi Foundation academy in action at the Olubadan Stadium, Soccernet.ng reports.

Speaking to Soccernet.ng, the German-based player addressed the curiosity about his investment in his father’s homeland, Nigeria.

Born in Munich, Germany, to a Nigerian father, Abbey Adeyemi, and Romanian mother, Alexandra Adeyemi, he has represented Germany in various youth international tournaments.

Despite his German ties, Adeyemi’s footballing journey began in both Munich (Germany) and Ibadan (Nigeria), shaping his connection to Nigeria significantly.

Adeyemi highlighted his deep-rooted connection to Nigeria through his father and childhood memories of playing football in the streets with local friends during visits.

“As I said, I think I have my root here. My father is from here, and his heart is still here in Nigeria. Of course, my heart is also here in Nigeria,” he shared.

His passion for giving back to the community involves offering educational and football opportunities to youngsters.

“[There is] a story of how I came here to Nigeria. I saw the kids playing football on the street, and I played with them. It’s a small story, but it touched my heart all my life. So I try to give something back to the community.” he continued.

Adeyemi aims to provide schooling and football training with qualified coaches, emphasizing the significance of this initiative.

“The first thing is to help people. To give teenagers and children the opportunity choose their life, to go to school, to play football, and with good qualities, good coaches, this is what we are trying to do,” he added.

Accompanied by Borussia Dortmund staff, the 21-year-old expressed pride in the club’s involvement in Nigeria, hinting at future collaborations between his foundation and the academy, aiming to pave the way for Nigerian talents to reach the high leagues in Europe.

“Of course, BVB is here, makes me also really proud that they made a big way to Nigeria. To look how it is, and maybe work with my foundation and this is really important for me. So of course, the academy, if we plan for the future, we can do some good things and maybe also as you said with the academy, maybe also get in players to Europe, and give them the opportunity to play in the high league.” said Karim.

He concluded his visit by actively participating in various event activities, including refereeing the matches and presenting cash prizes to the young players.

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