Nigeria’s sports community has been struck by a series of deaths in recent weeks, including former footballers, coaches, sports administrators, journalists, and relatives of current players.
While this list may not be exhaustive, the following confirmed losses have left a significant impact on the nation’s sporting landscape.
Henry Nwosu (Footballer)
Former Super Eagles midfielder Henry Nwosu has died at the age of 62.
The Imo State-born player, the youngest member of Nigeria’s 1980 Africa Cup of Nations squad, passed away at 4:00 a.m. on March 14, 2026, at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Lagos, after five days in intensive care.
Former teammate Segun Odegbami announced the death, describing Nwosu as “Youngest Millionaire” and praising his vision, creativity, and contributions to Nigerian football.
Nwosu remained involved in coaching and mentoring young players, leaving a lasting legacy in domestic football.
Adegboye Onigbinde (Coach)
Former Super Eagles coach Adegboye Onigbinde died at the age of 88. The family announced his passing on March 9, 2026, signed by Bolade Adesuyi.
Onigbinde led Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and Korea and previously coached the Green Eagles in the early 1980s, including guiding them to the 1984 African Nations Cup final.
He also managed Shooting Stars SC to the African Cup of Champions Clubs final. Onigbinde later served as a technical instructor for CAF and FIFA and remained a respected figure in Nigerian football.
Following his death, Tributes continue to pour in.
The National Sports Commission and Nigeria Football Federation described his passing as “the exit of a great man” whose dedication and diligence shaped Nigerian football. NSC Director-General Bukola Olopade called him “a true legend,” while NIS CEO Philip Shaibu praised his discipline, courage, and football intelligence, saying legends like him must be celebrated.
NFF General Secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi called him “an extraordinary achiever” whose life revolved around football. The Nigeria Football Coaches Association hailed him as a respected leader, mentor, and elder statesman with lasting influence across generations.
Dunkwu Chamberlain (President, Nigeria Aquatics Federation)
Dunkwu Chamberlain, president of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, died at the age of 54 on March 7, 2026, following a brief illness.
The federation’s Secretary General, Taiwo Oriss, confirmed the death, noting that Chamberlain had sponsored the second edition of the Swim to Future event, scheduled for the day of his passing.
A native of Uteh Okpu in Delta State, he previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff (Legislative) to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and as Special Adviser on Members’ Affairs. Speaker Abbas Tajudeen described his death as “devastating,” highlighting his dedication to service.
The National Sports Commission expressed sorrow over the death of Dunkwu, describing his passing as a major loss to the country’s sporting community, adding that he had played a key role in promoting swimming and other water sports, particularly through initiatives aimed at nurturing young athletes and expanding opportunities within the discipline.
Niyi Oyeleke (Sports Journalist)
Veteran sports journalist Niyi Oyeleke passed away on March 3, 2026.
Oyeleke had served as a production manager and analyst for SuperSport Nigeria, covering the Nigeria Professional Football League, and was the former chairman of the Lagos chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN).
He began his career with the Nigerian Television Authority and played a key role in advancing the professional standing of sports journalists.
Oyeleke was laid to rest in his hometown of Offa, Kwara State, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and integrity in Nigerian sports media.
Saburi Adeniji (Footballer)
Nigerian footballer Saburi Adeniji, a left winger for Kings Park Rangers FC in the United Kingdom, died in February 2026 after suffering a severe brain stem injury.
Adeniji remained hospitalised until arrangements were made for his family to travel to the UK. A devoted husband and father to a four-year-old daughter, the club described him as a valued teammate and committed family man.
Following his death, Kings Park Rangers launched a fundraising initiative to support his wife and secure his daughter’s education, calling on the football community to rally around the bereaved family.
Parents of Super Eagles Players
Sunday Ndidi (Father of Wilfred Ndidi, Footballer)
Sunday Ndidi, father of Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi, died on January 27, 2026, in a road accident in Umunede, Delta State. The retired military officer passed away after being rushed to a hospital in Agbor.
His son’s club, Besiktas, confirmed the death and extended condolences, while President Bola Tinubu also expressed sympathy.
The incident represents a personal loss to the footballer and underscores the broader impact on the families of Nigerian athletes.
Mrs Sarah Chukwueze (Mother of Samuel Chukwueze, Footballer)
Mrs Sarah Chukwueze, mother of Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze, died on January 29, 2026, after a brief illness.
The death was confirmed by her son’s brother, David Chukwueze, on social media and later by the National Sports Commission.
The Commission praised her influence on her son’s career and extended condolences to the family, highlighting the central role of family in nurturing elite athletes. Details surrounding her illness were not disclosed.
