Nigerian singer Burna Boy has made history by becoming the first Nigerian artiste to present an award at the Ballon d’Or ceremony.
The Last Last singer presented the 2026 Sócrates Award to Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka at the London Palladium on Monday, October 26, during the 70th edition of the Ballon d’Or, the first to be held in London.
Before presenting the award, Burna Boy spoke about his football academy in Nigeria, expressing hope that one day, a Nigerian would win the Ballon d’Or.
“Something I started a few years ago, just to support the football culture back home. Hopefully, inshallah, one day I’ll come back here to see one of my people getting an award in Ballon d’Or,” he said.
The Sócrates Award recognises footballers who use their influence to support humanitarian causes.
Saka, who represents England and has Nigerian heritage, received the honour for his charitable work with BigShoe. The organisation supports medical treatment for children, including operations in Nigeria.
