The former Senate President of Nigeria, Bukola Saraki, was among the high-profile attendees at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night as Arsenal hosted Real Madrid in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal tie.
Mr Saraki, a known supporter of the English Premier League side, confirmed his presence at the match via a post on his official Facebook page, stating:
“Thrilled to be here at the Emirates Stadium tonight for the Champions League Quarterfinal, Arsenal vs Real Madrid! Let’s go, Gunners! #COYG #ARSRMA #UCL”
Mr Saraki, a former Kwara State governor, is an Arsenal fan and a prominent figure in Nigerian football development.
He is the founder of Abubakar Bukola Saraki Football Club (ABS FC), a professional team based in Ilorin, Kwara State, which currently competes in the Nigeria National League (NNL)—the second tier of the Nigerian football league system.
Arsenal Football Club have one of the largest and most passionate fan bases in Nigeria.

Over the years, the club has attracted a significant following, thanks in part to the influence of iconic players such as Nwankwo Kanu and its consistent presence in top-tier European football.
READ ALSO: U-17 AFCON: Battle for semi-final berths heats up in Morocco
Prominent Nigerian business leaders, including Aliko Dangote and Tony Elumelu, are also well-known supporters of the club.
Tuesday’s encounter with Real Madrid marked a critical moment in Arsenal’s European campaign, as the club continues its quest for an elusive continental glory.
The match drew global attention, with dignitaries, celebrities, and football fans in attendance, highlighting the global reach and influence of the UEFA Champions League.
Support PREMIUM TIMES’ journalism of integrity and credibility
At Premium Times, we firmly believe in the importance of high-quality journalism. Recognizing that not everyone can afford costly news subscriptions, we are dedicated to delivering meticulously researched, fact-checked news that remains freely accessible to all.
Whether you turn to Premium Times for daily updates, in-depth investigations into pressing national issues, or entertaining trending stories, we value your readership.
It’s essential to acknowledge that news production incurs expenses, and we take pride in never placing our stories behind a prohibitive paywall.
Would you consider supporting us with a modest contribution on a monthly basis to help maintain our commitment to free, accessible news?
Make Contribution
TEXT AD: Call Willie – +2348098788999
© Premium Times