Super Eagles forward Akor Adams has explained the inspiration behind his widely discussed celebration during Nigeria’s clash with Algeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, after the moment sparked conversations among fans and on social media, as per reports gathered by Nigeriasoccernet.com

The Sevilla striker scored Nigeria’s second goal against the Desert Foxes and followed it with a distinctive celebration that immediately caught attention. Speaking after the match, Adams revealed that the gesture was deliberate and carried a deeper message beyond football.

“My celebration in the previous game was intentional, you don’t kick someone when they’re down,” Adams said. “It was a tribute to Congolese fan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, known as ‘Lumumba’.”

The Nigerian international explained that the celebration symbolised respect, empathy, and solidarity, stressing that footballers have a responsibility to show humanity even in moments of intense rivalry and competition.

Adams’ goal played a key role in Nigeria’s continued strong showing at the tournament, while his explanation of the celebration has drawn praise from supporters, many of whom applauded him for using the AFCON platform to pass a powerful and meaningful message.

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