Former Super Eagles winger Henry Onyekuru has become the subject of widespread discussion on social media after making a surprise return to his childhood neighbourhood in Surulere, Lagos, to play street football during his holiday in Nigeria.
The former Galatasaray forward was welcomed enthusiastically by residents eager to catch a glimpse of one of Surulere’s most successful football exports. However, it was not his appearance on the pitch that dominated conversations online.
Videos circulating on social media showed Onyekuru arriving at the venue in his Lamborghini Urus alongside an armed security entourage reportedly made up of nine soldiers, a sight that immediately divided opinion among football fans and Nigerians alike.
Several users questioned the appropriateness of military personnel accompanying a footballer to a casual community event, especially against the backdrop of Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges. Others argued that the 29-year-old had every right to ensure his safety while appearing at a crowded public gathering where emotions can run high.
Despite the debate, many residents were delighted to see Onyekuru reconnect with the neighbourhood where his football journey began. The winger has remained a popular figure among local supporters since breaking into professional football and going on to represent clubs in Belgium, France, Greece, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
Onyekuru, who was part of Nigeria’s squad that secured a bronze medal at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, spent several memorable spells at Galatasaray and won multiple domestic titles with the Istanbul giants. He currently plays for Turkish side Gençlerbirliği after joining the club ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Although opinions remain split over the scale of his security presence, Onyekuru’s decision to return to Surulere and share a football moment with locals was warmly received by many fans who still regard him as one of the area’s proudest sporting ambassadors.
