Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo paid a courtesy visit to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday during his ongoing stay in Nigeria.
The Super Eagles-eligible centre-back, who recently completed a standout debut season with Chelsea, is in Lagos to host the Tosin Adarabioyo Youth Cup, organised in partnership with the Lagos State Football Association.
The grassroots football event kicked off at the historic Onikan Stadium on Lagos Island.
During his visit to the Lagos State Government House, Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the 27-year-old for staying grounded despite his rise in world football.
Tosin Adarabioyo and Governor Babajide Sanwo -Olu in Lagos Government house. Photo Credit: LSG
“It’s always inspiring to meet young Nigerians making their mark internationally, who remain grounded and stay connected to home,” the governor wrote via social media.
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Adarabioyo, born in London to Nigerian parents, has represented England at youth level but remains eligible to play for Nigeria.
He has previously hinted at the possibility of representing the Super Eagles, having once declared his desire to feature at the 2022 FIFA World Cup with either Nigeria or England.
The defender began his career at Manchester City, making his senior debut in 2016. He later had loan stints at West Bromwich Albion and Blackburn Rovers before joining Fulham in 2020.
Tosin Adarabioyo with his family and Governor Babajide Sanwo -Olu in Lagos Government house. Photo Credit: LSG
In 2024, he signed for Chelsea and enjoyed an impressive debut season, scoring five goals in 41 appearances while helping the club win both the FIFA Club World Cup and the UEFA Europa Conference League.
Tosin’s visit forms part of a broader effort to inspire the next generation of Nigerian footballers, with his youth tournament expected to feature promising young talents from across Lagos State.
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He is expected to be present at Onikan Stadium throughout the tournament, continuing to engage with fans, grassroots players, and football stakeholders.
