120 medical operations in Kano, Rwanda: How Bukayo Saka won special Ballon d’Or honour

The 25-year-old winger received the prestigious accolade on Monday, October 26, during the glittering gala at the London Palladium.

The Socrates Award, named in honour of the legendary Brazilian footballer and activist, is specifically dedicated to acknowledging players who drive exceptional social and community initiatives beyond the pitch.

Saka earned the distinction for his relentless and expansive medical philanthropy conducted in partnership with the BigShoe charity.

During his emotional acceptance speech, the Arsenal talisman highlighted the tangible difference his financial contributions are making across the globe.

Saka read a deeply heartfelt message from a 12-year-old boy in a Rwandan village whose eyesight was fully restored through medical procedures funded by his charitable efforts.

This life-changing intervention in Rwanda represents a continuation of Saka’s extensive humanitarian footprint in Africa.

In 2022, the forward famously partnered with BigShoe to entirely fund 120 critical operations for children in Kano, Nigeria, ensuring they received necessary treatments for hernias, brain tumours, and other debilitating conditions.

Grammy Award-winning Nigerian music sensation Burna Boy stepped onto the stage to present the trophy to Saka. 

Before officially announcing the Arsenal star as the recipient, the Afrobeats icon took a moment to address the global audience with a bold declaration regarding his home nation’s footballing future.

Burna Boy stated that, "Insha Allah," he will return to the Ballon d’Or ceremony in a future edition to hand a prize to a Nigerian player.