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Segun Odegbami urges support for ailing AFCON legend Kadiri Ikhana, citing neglect of retired footballers.
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He called on authorities and Nigerians to intervene.
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The situation has renewed demands for better welfare for ex-players.
Segun Odegbami urgently appeals for support for Nigeria’s retired football legends after learning that 1980 AFCON winner Kadiri Ikhana fights for his life at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital in Auchi, Edo State.
Also Read: Odegbami Reacts as Osimhen Surpasses His International Goal Record for Nigeria
On Monday, Odegbami slammed the cycle of public pleas, saying:
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> “It is absolutely clear to me that most of us, retired international Nigerian athletes, need help. We are suffering, living in pain, poverty and poor health.”
He adds that the football community still mourns four recent losses, including former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai.
Ikhana now lies “at death’s gates,” and Odegbami warns that neglect leaves ex-players vulnerable.
Odegbami urges the Edo State Government, National Sports Commission, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and generous Nigerians to step up.
So far, Hon. Austin Braimoh, former Chairman of the South-South Police Service Commission, covers the coach’s mounting bills.
Recalling a quiet bedside moment, Odegbami shares Ikhana’s own plea:
> “In a muffled voice, when he was conscious enough and able to utter a few words, Kadiri begged me to ask Nigerians to pray for him. That’s what I am doing now.”
This crisis highlights the need for swift welfare reform. Former international Etim Esin criticizes our nation’s failure:
> “See Nigeria, see this country, someone will struggle for Nigeria, play for Nigeria, and what will it reward you with? Depression, frustration.”
Now everyone watches the authorities to deliver real, lasting support for our sporting heroes.
