The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has extended its condolences to legendary former footballer and Nigerian captain, Dr. Segun Odegbami, following the passing of his son, Oluwagbeminiyi Odegbami. The sad news was made public by Odegbami himself on Thursday, revealing that his son had passed away the previous Friday.
Known for his stellar performance as the top scorer at the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria secured their first title, Odegbami has been a prominent figure in Nigerian football both on and off the field. The General Secretary of the NFF, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, expressed his sympathy for the former captain during this difficult time.
“The death of a son is perhaps the worst thing that can happen to any living parent. It is with a deep sense of sorrow that we commiserate with Dr. Olusegun Odegbami. This must be a very tough period for him,” Dr. Sanusi said in a statement.
Recalling Odegbami’s passion for the game and his unwavering support for the national team, Dr. Sanusi highlighted the former captain’s dedication to Nigerian football. “I remember the passion with which our former captain traversed the whole of Cote d’Ivoire covering the Africa Cup of Nations earlier in the year, and his palpable passion and fervor any time he had the opportunity to speak with the Super Eagles’ players,” he noted.
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He also mentioned Odegbami’s disappointment at Nigeria’s loss in the final match of the tournament, emphasizing the former player’s strong belief in the team’s potential. The NFF scribe expressed the Federation and Nigerian football fraternity’s grief over the news of Oluwagbeminiyi’s passing, offering prayers for his soul.
“We are in grief. Dr. Odegbami is a great friend, apart from being a legend of the Nigeria game and a former captain of Nigeria. We marvel at his unflagging love and zest for the Nigerian game,” Dr. Sanusi added.
As the NFF extends its support to Segun Odegbami during this challenging time, it hopes to provide comfort and solace to the grieving father. “We pray that God gives him the fortitude to pull through these difficult moments and also grant the departed young man eternal rest,” the NFF conveyed in their prayers for the Odegbami family.
Odegbami’s contributions to Nigerian football, both as a player and as a passionate supporter, have left a lasting impact on the sport in the country. His dedication and love for the game have inspired many, and his loss is deeply felt by the football community.
