From the Nigeria Magazine Desk
Arsenal and England football star Bukayo Saka has won the 2026 Sócrates Award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London, in recognition of his humanitarian efforts and contributions to children’s healthcare.
The 25-year-old received the award on Monday, October 26, for his charitable work with BigShoe, an organisation that helps provide medical treatment for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
In 2022, Saka partnered with the organisation to fund life-changing surgical procedures for 120 children in Kano, Nigeria, helping young patients access medical care they might otherwise have struggled to afford. His humanitarian efforts later extended to children in Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania.
During the award ceremony, Saka also highlighted the impact of the organisation’s work by sharing the story of a 14-year-old boy from Rwanda whose eyesight was restored following medical treatment. The intervention helped the boy return to reading and participating more fully in everyday activities.
The Sócrates Award recognises footballers who use their influence and resources to support humanitarian causes and create positive social change. It was established in 2022 and named after the late Brazilian football legend Sócrates.
Beyond his achievements on the pitch, Sócrates was a qualified medical doctor and a prominent advocate for democracy. He also played a key role in the Corinthians Democracy movement, which promoted democratic decision-making within his football club during Brazil’s military dictatorship.
Saka’s recognition therefore reflects the award’s central message: that sporting success can be used to improve lives beyond the football field.
His achievement highlights the importance of using influence, resources and personal success to address social challenges and expand access to essential services, particularly for vulnerable children.
The award adds to Saka’s growing record of charitable initiatives and underscores the potential of sports personalities to contribute meaningfully to communities around the world.
Source: Ballon d’Or official website | TheCable
