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NEWS

Bukayo Saka Says He Chose Fiancée Tolani Benson to Preserve His Yoruba Identity

December 7, 2025 • 2 min read

December 7, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke

England international and Arsenal winger, Bukayo Saka, has revealed that his decision to marry his fiancée, Tolani Benson, is strongly tied to his desire to preserve his Yoruba cultural identity despite living abroad.

Saka, who is engaged to Tolani, described her as a “beautiful and well-brought-up” woman, noting that he consistently reassures her of his commitment to their relationship and to maintaining cultural continuity. He reportedly tells her that no matter where his football career takes him, marrying within his culture remains a priority.

Tolani is said to sometimes express concerns about the pressures surrounding Saka’s fame and the temptations that come with a high-profile career. However, the footballer maintains that their bond is strong and rooted in shared values.

According to Saka, being with Tolani deepens his connection to his Yoruba roots. Their shared language, he said, provides a sense of privacy and familiarity, mirroring the way he communicates with his parents. He added that Tolani’s fluency in Yoruba and her upbringing help her relate naturally with his family.

Saka also demonstrates the same cultural respect when visiting Tolani’s parents, where he adheres to traditional Yoruba greetings and customs. Their families reportedly view the relationship as a symbol of cultural preservation, especially for young Nigerians in the diaspora.

The Arsenal forward highlighted the importance of his regular visits to Nigeria—particularly Lagos, where he grew up. He said these trips strengthen his identity, as locals often converse with him in Yoruba, reinforcing the sense of belonging. “When you are with your people, you will automatically understand what’s happening around you,” he said.

Saka acknowledged that Yoruba community groups in the UK actively promote marriage within the culture to maintain heritage. He stressed the importance of passing on culture to the next generation, stating that he wants his future children to speak Yoruba and bear Yoruba names. With Tolani sharing the same cultural values, he believes raising culturally grounded children will be seamless.

On his favorite meals, Saka listed traditional foods such as Eba and Egusi, Amala and Ewedu, and Pounded Yam with Efo Riro, alongside more global dishes like rice and sandwiches. He added that Tolani enjoys the same meals, describing it as another area where their cultural compatibility aligns.