Every person must give back - Calvin Bassey distances himself from ‘I’m not an ATM’ Tolu Arokodare
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Two Super Eagles star Calvin Bassey and Tolu Arokodare with differing views on giving back |Photo Credit: Imago

Every person must give back - Calvin Bassey distances himself from ‘I’m not an ATM’ Tolu Arokodare

Asukwo Oduo 11:12 - 12.06.2025

Calvin Bassey has said it is important to give back unlike his Super Eagles teammate Tolu Arokodare who warned Nigerians to stop begging him.

Super Eagles of Nigeria and Fulham FC defensive powerhouse Calvin Bassey has maintained that giving back is very important.

The 25-year-old dubbed the 'Nigerian Maldini' made this statement during an interview with Unique Sports Group in the United Kingdom, when he was asked about his upcoming initiative in the summer.

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The Italy-born star who grew up in England stated that: “I think No.1, it’s important for every person to give back. You know, it was a long journey to get to this point.”

Bassey also further commented on the importance of being a role model,stressing that “it’s important for us to be role models. I don’t feel like we chose to be, but it comes with the job. I think being a good example for kids is important because so many people look up to us, we have to make sure we’re leading by example, doing the right things and acting in the right way.”

The former Ajax defender who can play at left fullback or in central defence is planning on giving back to the community where he grew up in the United Kingdom as a means of showing appreciation for the support he enjoyed from them in his professional career.

Back story - Tolu Arokodare says he’s not an ATM machine, Bassey disagrees

Recall that KRC Genk of Belgium and Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare had warned Nigerians to stop begging him that he is not an Automated Teller Machine that dispenses cash.

This drew widespread reaction and criticism from Nigerian football fans towards the 24-year-old who scored his first international goal in the Super Eagles 1-1 draw with Russia last week.

However, the stance of his Super Eagles teammate Calvin Bassey is quite different from that of the giant striker.

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In March 2025, Bassey revealed that as much as fifty per cent of his salary does not belong to him, because he has to cater for his family and others dependent on him — a phenomenon known as black tax.

“When I look at my wage, half isn’t mine. Half is for my brothers and people I have to look after.” he told Three Sixty TV.

“I have to think about the family I have back home and what I can do to help them out. As mad as it sounds, two or three grand a week can make a difference in looking out for more people.”   

Bassey’s generosity extends beyond just financial gifts,as he is also warm and receptive. During the last game of the 23/24 season, Bassey handed a young fan his match shirt – thus giving the youngster a moment to cherish forever.

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The rock-solid Nigerian defender scored two goals in 37 appearances across all competitions for Fulham in the just concluded 24/25 season.   

Calvin Bassey's stat for 24/25 season |Credit: Fulham FC