The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, recently hosted Bukayo Saka, the Arsenal winger.
Sanwo-Olu hosted Saka who is currently in Lagos state on vacation.
The Gunners winger arrived in Nigeria a few days ago after a bitter-sweet season with his club in England.
In viral footage, the 21-year-old could be seen in white caftan and sneakers taking a walk on the streets of Lagos with a couple of orderlies, while fans chanted “Up Gunners”.
On Saturday, Sanwo-Olu received Saka, who he described as “my favourite Arsenal player,” at the state house in Marina.
The governor, who is also an Arsenal fan, expressed excitement at meeting the England international.
Sanwo-Olu said he is proud of Arsenal’s “inspiring run in the Premier League with such a young team.”
The governor also shared photos of the visit on Twitter while disclosing that Saka presented a signed Arsenal jersey to him.
“Exciting day at the State House, Marina today as I had the pleasure of hosting my favorite Arsenal player, Star Boy Bukayo Saka,” Sanwo-Olu wrote.
“I also enjoyed receiving my own signed Saka Jersey. As a proud #Gunner, I’m incredibly proud of their inspiring run in the Premier League with such a young team. Their determination has motivated many and shown us the power of youth. We’re committed to bringing that same spirit to grassroots football in Lagos.
“Together, let’s create opportunities for our talented young players. Thank you for visiting me Bukayo and I look forward to next season.”
Exciting day at the State House, Marina today as I had the pleasure of hosting my favorite @Arsenal player, Star Boy Bukayo Saka. @BukayoSaka87.
I also enjoyed receiving my own signed Saka Jersey.
As a proud #Gunner, I'm incredibly proud of their inspiring run in the Premier… pic.twitter.com/OI9pSYeGrE
— Babajide Sanwo-Olu (@jidesanwoolu) June 3, 2023
Saka played an important role for Arsenal as they finished second in the league behind eventual winners Manchester City.
Born to Nigerian parents who immigrated to England, Saka was eligible for the Super Eagles, but he opted for the Three Lions in 2020.
In 2022, Saka sponsored surgeries for 120 kids from poor homes in Kano, Nigeria.