From poverty to purpose: The redemption of Emmanuel Adebayor

FORMER Arsenal striker Emmanuel Adebayor's life story is one of literal miracles and staggering perseverance, beginning in a setting of abject poverty that few can truly comprehend.

- SAMEER NAIK

He recounts his harrowing childhood: “If I told you all this, you will be amazed. I was born in a house without electricity.”

“I was born in a house without a toilet. We didn't have a toilet, so you couldn't even bathe. So, you can imagine. And it was difficult... my parents couldn't afford to pay school fees anymore.”

He further emphasises the severity of their poverty by detailing the school fees:

“I’m not talking about £1 000 or £2 000. I’m talking about maybe £7 or £10, because then it was a government school, a public school, which cost them maybe £5 per trimester, but they couldn't afford it.”

His entry into the world of movement was itself miraculous, as he spent his earliest years unable to walk. The moment that changed his life forever came in a church in Ghana.

“I saw the ball flew over the wall... and I didn’t know I was not walking. I stood up and started running.”

Football was not just a career; it was his deliverance

This foundational experience of struggle and miracle drives his dedication today.

“I think I’m doing it because of what I have been through. Because at some point, I was looking for somebody to give me football shoes.”

“I couldn’t get any. I was looking for somebody to give me a backpack to be able to go to school.

“I couldn’t. So, I would rather use it, even if I must use my own money, I will still do it with pleasure, and I’m doing it anyway.”

The pride of Togo and the power of representation

Despite being eligible to play for Nigeria, where his parents are from, and Ghana, Adebayor chose to represent his birthplace, Togo — a decision he views as the highest honour.