“There Is Poor In Europe And Poor In Africa. You Can’t Compare, It’ll Never Be The Same” – Gift Orban’s Inspiring Rise.
Gift Orban, the 22-year-old Nigerian striker now lighting up the Bundesliga with TSG Hoffenheim, has shared a poignant reflection on his journey from poverty in Nigeria to success in European football. His raw and honest words highlight the challenges he overcame and his burning ambition to give back to those in need.
In a recent interview with L’Équipe, Orban spoke about the stark contrast between poverty in Africa and Europe. “I can’t explain it because you can’t understand. You were born in Europe, it’s not like being born in Africa,” he said. “If you’re poor in France, the state can help you, charities can help you and take care of you. In Africa, no one gives you anything, and you die of hunger.” Growing up in Benue, Nigeria, Orban recalls waking up to empty cupboards, a reality he says shaped his resilience. “You get up in the morning and you find nothing to eat, don’t ask me to go into detail,” he added.
Football was Orban’s escape. “That’s why we all want to play football. Where I grew up, if you’re in a poor family, life is impossible,” he explained. His talent shone through early, leading him from Nigeria to Stabæk in Norway in 2022, where he scored 16 goals in 22 matches. A move to KAA Gent in Belgium followed, where he made history with a UEFA record for the fastest hat-trick in club competitions, scoring three goals in just over three minutes against İstanbul Başakşehir. After a challenging stint at Olympique Lyonnais, Orban joined Hoffenheim in January 2025 for €9 million and has already bagged four goals in nine Bundesliga appearances.
Orban’s drive extends beyond personal success. “Now, I want to succeed in life in order to be able to help. Not only my family, that’s already obviously the case, but I want to help all poor people, orphans,” he said. His experiences fuel a deep commitment to supporting those facing the same struggles he once did.
Hoffenheim’s coach, Christian Ilzer, praised Orban’s mentality, telling Kicker: “It’s a hallmark of goal-getters that they don’t dwell on missed chances for too long, but rather trust their own processes and their coolness in the opponent’s penalty area.” With Hoffenheim battling relegation, Orban’s recent strike in a 3-1 win over Werder Bremen has been a vital boost.
From the streets of Nigeria to the Bundesliga, Orban’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience and determination. As he continues to make his mark in Germany, his story inspires, and his commitment to helping others promises a legacy far beyond the pitch.