As the Circle City lights up for another NFL season, the Naija diaspora take immense pride in celebrating four remarkable warriors who carry the spirit of Nigeria onto the Indianapolis Colts’ gridiron. These men don’t just represent the Horseshoe—they represent our heritage, our resilience, and our unbreakable connection to the motherland.
Adetomiwa Adebawore (#95), the dynamic defensive tackle, enters his third season with the Colts after being drafted in the fourth round (110th overall) in 2023. His parents emigrated from Nigeria to the United States in the 1990s, and his father is a Nigerian prince descending from the Yoruba tribe, making Adebawore technically a prince himself. Growing up in an African household, Adebawore expressed how cool it is to be in the same environment with people who are similar to him. This young prince is writing his own royal legacy in Indianapolis with explosive athleticism that has opposing offenses on notice.
Samson Ebukam (#91), the veteran defensive end, was born in Onitsha, Nigeria, and moved to the United States at age nine. After leading the Colts with 9.5 sacks in 2023, Ebukam missed the entire 2024 season due to a torn Achilles sustained during training camp. But this warrior returns for 2025 with fire in his heart! In 2020, Ebukam started the T&S Foundation with a mission to fulfill basic humanitarian needs for the people of Africa, particularly Nigeria. His commitment to giving back shows that he plays for something far greater than himself.
Segun Olubi (#50), the resilient linebacker and child of Nigerian immigrants, has been with the Colts since 2022 and is currently in his third season. “You’re definitely an ambassador in everything you do,” Olubi said. “I’m an ambassador with my last name. Everybody knows where my last name comes from. My first name, my family, gotta make them proud and make the people around them proud.” His journey from practice squad to contributing defender exemplifies the determination that runs through Nigerian blood.
Austin Ajiake (#58), our newest addition to the active roster, was signed from the practice squad on September 16, 2025. The California-born linebacker with Nigerian roots showcased his potential in the preseason with a standout performance, and his elevation to the 53-man roster speaks to his relentless work ethic—a trait that flows from his heritage.
The Colts currently lead the entire NFL with the most players of African descent on their 53-man roster, creating a brotherhood where our culture thrives. From all of us in the Indianapolis diaspora community, we say: Ẹ ku àbọ̀—welcome home! May this season bring you health, victories, and the strength of our ancestors. You carry our names, our pride, and our dreams every time you step on that field.
Naija no dey carry last!