Skip to main content Skip to footer 
Borussia Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi, whose roots trace back to Nigeria through his father, recently embarked on a poignant journey to his father’s homeland with the mission to contribute to the community. Born in Munich to a Nigerian father and Romanian mother, Adeyemi expressed a profound connection to Nigeria, describing his heart as “still here” and his strong desire to give back.
During the Bundesliga’s winter break, Adeyemi visited Nigeria under the banner of the Karim Adeyemi Foundation, an organization he established to uplift and empower the people of Nigeria, particularly focusing on children. His visit encompassed various significant locations, including the bustling city of Ibadan and the vibrant city of Lagos.
The Karim Adeyemi Foundation has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at eliminating poverty, ending inequalities, and empowering local youths through education and football development since its inception in 2019. One notable project involved donating residential buildings to the Maracana Stadium in Ajegunle, Lagos, alongside Nigerian international Wilfred Ndidi.
Adeyemi’s foundation has set ambitious goals, aiming to provide education to 1,000 students by 2030, with a particular focus on addressing the issue of out-of-school children in Oyo State. Additionally, the foundation operates the Adeyemi Football Club, with a mission to train 5,000 professional footballers by the end of the decade.
Karim Adeyemi’s visit to Nigeria symbolized more than just a homecoming; it represented a celebration of unity, passion, and the transformative power of football. His presence left an enduring impact on the hearts of the people in Ibadan and Lagos, where he witnessed firsthand the positive influence his foundation is making in the community.
Accompanying Adeyemi on his journey was Christian Diercks, head of the BVB Evonik Football Academy, who highlighted Adeyemi’s commitment to giving back and building something meaningful in Nigeria through his foundation. As a testament to Borussia Dortmund’s support, the club donated €9,909 to the Karim Adeyemi Foundation, further assisting its charitable endeavors.
Adeyemi’s Nigerian journey exemplifies a heartwarming commitment to fulfilling promises, making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities, and showcasing the profound impact football can have beyond the field.
