Trending 
World-renowned Togolese football superstar Emmanuel Adebayor was among the distinguished guests at the just-concluded Africa Media Awards held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Thursday, December 4, 2025. The event marked the first continent-wide celebration dedicated to honouring African storytelling and media excellence.
Addressing the audience, Adebayor opened with an expression of gratitude and pride, saying:
“Good evening ladies and gentlemen. I’m so honoured being here today in front of legends, those who give us envy to change the narrative of our continent, which is Africa.”
He spoke emotionally about his personal inspirations, particularly the legacy of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Adebayor shared: “My hero, the person that I used to look up to, was Dr Kwame Nkrumah and today, being in a room with the daughter inspired me a lot.”
Turning to the media professionals in attendance, he praised their role in shaping Africa’s development.
“I just want to say to all the media people in this room, you guys are contributing a lot to the development of our continent, which is Africa.”
Reflecting on his own journey as an athlete, he highlighted the importance of impact and service.
“We also have tried our best on the football pitch across the world. But at the end of the day… my father always told me, Emmanuel, you can’t change the world, but try to impact at least in one person’s life.”
He added that “today, I have impacted a lot of youth lives in the continent. And that’s exactly what you guys are doing. We’re praying for you guys. We’re supporting you guys.”
Adebayor also noted that he was representing fellow African football icons at the ceremony:
“I’m here on behalf of the other legends, African footballers. I can mention names, I can’t stop. But thanks for honouring me.”
The football legend expressed appreciation to the event’s organisers and media partner RT for inviting him.
“Thanks for inviting me RT, to this beautiful event.”
Highlighting the historic nature of the night, Adebayor stressed the significance of Africa hosting its own continental media awards for the first time. He concluded saying, “We are entering history today, because this is the first ever African media award hosted in Africa, in the continent. So that they can never talk in 10 years without saying the first word. So I’m very happy and I’m very pleased to be here.”
The Africa Media Awards 2025 brought together notable figures from across the continent, underscoring a shared commitment to elevating African stories, celebrating African creativity, and strengthening the media landscape for future generations.
