Mother of Inaki and Nico Williams Reveals She Claimed to Be from Liberia to Gain Entry into Spain

In a newly released documentary titled Los Williams, Maria, the mother of footballers Inaki and Nico Williams, shares a powerful story of her family’s migration from Ghana to Spain in 1994. In the film, which offers a deep dive into the lives of the two brothers and their family, Maria recalls how she had to lie about her origins in order to be accepted into Spain.

At the time, Maria was pregnant with Inaki and, along with her husband, fled Ghana in search of a better life. When they reached Melilla, Spain’s North African enclave, the couple was arrested by authorities. To gain entry into Spain, a lawyer advised Maria to claim she was fleeing from Liberia, a country embroiled in a civil war from 1989 to 1996.

Using Liberia’s conflict as a cover, the couple was allowed into Spain. This deception, though risky, ultimately paid off, allowing Maria to settle in Spain and raise her children. Today, Inaki and Nico Williams are successful footballers, both playing for Athletic Bilbao. Inaki represents the Black Stars of Ghana, while Nico plays for Spain’s national team.

Maria’s sacrifice paved the way for her children’s success, demonstrating the lengths some parents go to ensure a better future for the next generation. The story invites reflection on what sacrifices people today are willing to make to secure a brighter future for those who come after them.

Watch the documentary here:

Mother of Inaki and Nico Williams Reveals She Claimed to Be from Liberia to Gain Entry into Spain. pic.twitter.com/cyU5V0J1xP

— Geez Liberia (@geezliberia) September 25, 2024