Benjamin Asare (M) and his coach Aboubakar Ouattara (R) during the presentation
In a heart-warming display of generosity typical of him, philanthropist and businessman, Alhaji Seidu Agongo has gifted a brand-new car to Black Stars first-choice goalkeeper, Benjamin Asare, after a viral video showing the national team star humbly commuting in a ‘trotro.’
The video, which spread rapidly across social media platforms last week, showed the 32-year-old goalkeeper quietly seated among everyday commuters in Accra, carrying just a backpack. That contrasted sharply to the luxury vehicles often associated with football stars.
Humble star
Mr Asare’s journey to becoming the Black Stars‘ number one goalkeeper reads like a script from an inspirational sports film.
Just a few years ago, the shot-stopper’s career appeared to be over after a devastating knee injury sidelined him for nearly a year in 2023.
Many thought he would never play professional football again. At 28, with such a serious injury, the odds were stacked against him.
But fate had other plans. Former Black Stars goalkeeper Richard “Olele” Kingston took Mr Asare under his wing, personally overseeing his rehabilitation and facilitating his move to Accra Great Olympics, where his remarkable comeback began.
His stellar performances eventually earned him a transfer to Hearts of Oak, where he rose to become captain of Ghana’s oldest club before receiving his first national team call-up in March 2024. By then, he was over 30 years!
“His story teaches us that it’s never too late to achieve your dreams,” Head Coach of the Black Stars, Mr Otto Addo who handed Mr Asare his debut against Chad in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, said earlier this year.
Alhaji Agongo’s gift
The living condition of a nation’s heroes reflects on how caring the nation is, as the Blackstars of Africa, Ghana must endeavour to demonstrate the necessary care and attention deserving of our heroes to win the said heroes all necessary respect and honour befitting their status.
It is to this end that Alhaji Agongo has come in to demonstrate hope for all who continue to make sacrifices for our mother land.
For Alhaji Agongo, known throughout the country for his philanthropic endeavours, the sight of a national hero using public transport wasn’t just surprising—it was a call to action.
“When I saw the video, I was moved by his humility,” the founder of the collapsed Heritage Bank said.
“Here is someone representing our nation at the highest level yet remaining so grounded. Such a character deserves recognition,” he said.
The businessman, who has previously supported widows, orphans, and various community projects across Ghana, arranged for the delivery of the brand-new vehicle to the goalkeeper, a gesture that has earned him praise from sports fans nationwide.
A two-way street
For many, what makes this story even more remarkable is Asare’s own generosity. Sources close to the Hearts of Oak team reveal that after earning approximately GH¢170,000 in bonuses from his national team appearances, the goalkeeper shared nearly half the amount with his club teammates, including players from the women’s team.
Those who know the goalkeeper say that is just who he is: He never forgets where he came from and always looks out for others.
At the handover ceremony, a visibly emotional Mr Asare expressed profound gratitude for Agongo’s gesture.
“This is beyond my wildest dreams,” he said, fighting back tears.
“I take the trotro not because I want sympathy, but because I believe in living simply. Mr. Agongo’s kindness has overwhelmed me, and I promise to honour this gift by continuing to give my best for Ghana.”
Lesson in humility
For many, Alhaji Agongo’s gesture teaches two lessons: In Mr Asare, we see humility despite success.
In the businessman, we see generosity without seeking recognition, twin qualities that make Ghana special.
As Asare prepares to represent Ghana in the upcoming Unity Cup in England this May, he does so with not just a new vehicle, but with the weight of a powerful story—one that reminds all Ghanaians that success is not measured by material possessions, but by character and impact.
From the cramped seats of a trotro to the comfort of a brand-new car, his journey continues to inspire a nation that loves both football and stories of genuine human connection.
Watch a tour of the Kenpong Football Academy below
