Football fans and music enthusiasts in Nigeria were sent into a frenzy late Wednesday evening when Real Madrid superstar David Alaba was spotted at the iconic New Afrika Shrine in Ikeja, Lagos. The Austrian defender, renowned for his versatility on the pitch and his global influence off it, made an unexpected appearance at the legendary cultural hub, immersing himself in the vibrant heart of Afrobeat music and Nigerian culture. The visit, which quickly became the talk of social media, has left fans buzzing with excitement and speculation about the purpose of his trip to the bustling Nigerian metropolis.
A Star in the Heart of Lagos
The New Afrika Shrine, a cultural landmark synonymous with the legacy of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, is no stranger to hosting high-profile visitors. However, Alaba’s appearance at the venue on May 29, 2025, caught many by surprise. Social media platforms, particularly X, erupted with posts from eyewitnesses who shared grainy videos and photos of a figure donning a Real Madrid jersey, later confirmed to be the 32-year-old football icon. The clips showed Alaba enjoying the electrifying atmosphere of the Shrine, surrounded by pulsating rhythms, energetic dancers, and a crowd of enthusiastic patrons.
Alaba, who has been sidelined from competitive football since sustaining a serious knee injury in December 2023, appeared to be in high spirits, engaging with fans and soaking in the vibrant energy of the venue. Eyewitnesses described him as approachable, with some lucky fans managing to snap selfies with the star. “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw David Alaba at the Shrine!” posted one X user,
. “He was just chilling, vibing to the music like a true Lagosian. What a legend!”
. “He was just chilling, vibing to the music like a true Lagosian. What a legend!”
The New Afrika Shrine
The New Afrika Shrine, located in the heart of Ikeja, is more than just a music venue—it’s a cultural institution that carries forward the legacy of Fela Kuti, the Afrobeat legend who used his music as a tool for social and political activism. Managed by Fela’s children, including Femi Kuti and Yeni Kuti, the Shrine is a pilgrimage site for music lovers worldwide, offering a raw, unfiltered experience of Afrobeat’s soul-stirring rhythms. The venue hosts regular performances by the Kuti family’s band, Egypt 80, and serves as a space for artistic expression, political discourse, and cultural celebration.
Alaba’s visit to the Shrine underscores its enduring appeal to global icons. The footballer, born to a Nigerian mother and a Filipino father, has often spoken about his pride in his African heritage. His presence at the Shrine can be seen as a homecoming of sorts, a chance to connect with his roots in a space that embodies the spirit of resilience and creativity that defines Lagos.
Alaba’s Nigerian Roots
David Alaba’s connection to Nigeria runs deep. Born in Vienna to a Nigerian mother, Gina Alaba, and a Filipino father, George Alaba, the footballer has often spoken about the influence of his multicultural background on his life and career. His mother’s Nigerian heritage, in particular, has been a source of pride for the star, who has visited Nigeria in the past. In interviews, Alaba has highlighted the importance of staying connected to his roots, and his visit to the Shrine is a testament to that commitment.
Nigeria’s football-mad population has long celebrated Alaba as one of their own, even though he represents Austria internationally. His versatility as a player—capable of excelling as a left-back, center-back, or midfielder—has earned him admiration worldwide, and his humility off the field has endeared him to fans. The sight of Alaba embracing Nigeria’s cultural heritage at the Shrine has only deepened that affection.
What’s Next for Alaba?
As Alaba continues his recovery from injury, his visit to Lagos has sparked curiosity about his next moves. While he remains under contract with Real Madrid, questions linger about his return to competitive football. The defender’s injury, a torn ACL, has kept him out of action for over a year, and fans are eager to see him back on the pitch. In the meantime, his appearance in Lagos suggests he’s making the most of his time off, exploring new experiences and reconnecting with his heritage.
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