Arsenal’s Premier League triumph after 22 years sparked massive celebrations among Nigerian fans, celebrities, politicians and football stars on social media.
The North London club were confirmed champions of England on Tuesday night after closest rivals Manchester City were held to a 1-1 draw by AFC Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.
Mikel Arteta’s side had earlier defeated Burnley 1-0 on Monday to move closer to the title before City’s slip officially handed Arsenal their first league crown since the famous “Invincibles” era under Arsène Wenger in the 2003/04 season.
The title victory ended years of heartbreak for Arsenal supporters after finishing second behind Manchester City and Liverpool in the previous three seasons.
Former Super Eagles captain Nwankwo Kanu was among the first Nigerians to react to the historic achievement.
Kanu, who won league titles with Arsenal during his playing days, wrote on social media: “KAN U believe it??? Arsenal Forever. The Gunners worked so hard for this. Difficult but they fought. Very well deserved. Come on you Gunners.”
Super Falcons star Asisat Oshoala also celebrated Arsenal’s success, saying the club deserved the title after waiting for over two decades.
She posted: “22yrs no b beans oo…. Arsenal deserve am. I’m glad they won this early, more rest period for them ahead of the UCL final.”
Former Nigerian vice-president Atiku Abubakar praised Arsenal’s determination and resilience throughout the season.
He wrote: “Congratulations to Arsenal on a well-deserved Premier League victory. This title is a testament to resilience, discipline, teamwork, and the courage to keep believing even when the odds seemed difficult.”
Businessman Tony Elumelu joined the celebrations by sharing a video of himself wearing an Arsenal shirt while listening to “Stand Up for the Champions.”
Award-winning singer Tiwa Savage also celebrated online, posting: “Congratulations to Us Arsenal, The champions of England.”
Fuji music star Wasiu Alabi Pasuma shared a dancing video and congratulated fellow Arsenal supporters after the club’s title success.
Nigerian-American music star Davido also became one of the biggest talking points online after announcing his return to supporting Arsenal.
Davido, who had previously switched support to Manchester United during Arsenal’s difficult years, posted: “Back a Gunner.”
His message quickly attracted reactions online, with rapper Odumodublvck welcoming him back to the Arsenal family.
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo celebrated passionately, writing: “After 22 long years, we are FINALLY CHAMPIONS!! UP GUNNERS!!”
Perhaps the biggest reaction came from Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface, who announced a giveaway of N1.5 million for Arsenal fans online.
The Bayer Leverkusen forward revealed that Arsenal was the first football club he supported as a child after his mother bought him a complete Arsenal jersey set.
Arsenal will officially lift the Premier League trophy after their final league match of the season against Crystal Palace on Sunday.
The Gunners could still end the campaign with a double as they prepare for the UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain later this month.
