Auchi, Edo State – July 14, 2025
By Sola Ojewusi
A dark cloud once again hovers over Nigerian sports as one of the nation’s most revered football legends, Kadiri Ikhana (MON), lies critically ill in Auchi, Edo State. His deteriorating health condition has sparked urgent appeals for intervention from the Nigerian public, governments at all levels, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and philanthropic individuals.
In a heartfelt plea made public by Dr. Olusegun Odegbami (MON, OLY)—himself a legend of Nigerian football—the grim reality of life after sports for retired athletes has been laid bare once again. “We are suffering, living in pain, poverty and poor health,” Odegbami lamented, revealing that five former Nigerian sports heroes have died within the last four months, most at relatively young ages.
Kadiri Ikhana, a member of Nigeria’s victorious 1980 African Cup of Nations team, former Bendel Insurance FC stalwart, and one of the most decorated coaches in Nigerian football history, is currently battling for survival. According to Odegbami, Ikhana has been transferred to the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital for emergency treatment, including blood transfusions and intensive diagnostics.
The football icon’s plight came to national attention through Hon. Austin Braimoh, immediate past Chairman of the South-South Police Service Commission, who has personally shouldered the mounting medical bills so far.
Despite being barely conscious, Ikhana managed to whisper a short message to his compatriots through Odegbami: “Tell Nigerians to pray for me.” A picture of him taken just yesterday paints a harrowing portrait of a once-vibrant hero now clinging to life.
This is not just another tale of a fallen star—Ikhana’s story is a grim reminder of the absence of a functional welfare system for Nigeria’s retired sports icons, many of whom gave their prime years, health, and strength to bring pride to the country.
Dr. Odegbami’s appeal is both personal and national. He calls on:
- The Edo State Government to immediately intervene and provide state-funded care.
- The Federal Government and the National Sports Commission to create sustainable support systems for retired athletes.
- The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to rally support and launch an emergency medical relief fund.
- Corporate bodies and philanthropists to urgently donate to save the life of a man who brought Nigeria glory on the pitch and respect on the sidelines.
Kadiri Ikhana is not just a name in Nigeria’s sports hall of fame; he is a symbol of excellence, discipline, and dedication. As Air Peace Ambassador and recipient of the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) national honour, he deserves to be celebrated in life—not just in memoriam.
At a time when the nation is still processing reports of the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari and the revered Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, the grim prospect of losing another national figure to preventable circumstances is too painful to contemplate.
Now is the time for Nigerians to show that we value our heroes. Kadiri Ikhana needs us—urgently.
Donations and inquiries can be channeled through Hon. Austin Braimoh or the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital where Ikhana is currently being treated.
May we not eulogize our heroes only in death.
