Odegbami issues urgent plea for ailing football icon Kadiri Ikhana

Nigerian football legend and respected sports advocate, Dr. Olusegun Odegbami (MON, OLY), has issued an emotional appeal to the Nigerian government, sports authorities, and the public for urgent intervention and support for ailing football icon Kadiri Ikhana.

Ikhana, a former national team player, member of the victorious 1980 African Cup of Nations squad, and accomplished coach, is reportedly battling for his life in Edo State.

In a heartfelt statement titled “Another Eagle on Death Throes!”, Odegbami expressed deep frustration over the persistent neglect and suffering faced by retired Nigerian athletes, many of whom are now contending with poverty, failing health, and a severe lack of institutional support.

“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. In the past four months, five of us have died, and at relatively young ages too,” Odegbami lamented.

He warned that the increasing number of deaths might be linked to long-term health effects from the intense physical strain endured during their active years—an issue he believes has yet to be properly studied or addressed.

Odegbami specifically highlighted the deteriorating health of Kadiri Ikhana, MON, a revered figure who also served as an ex-soldier and remains one of Nigeria’s most accomplished domestic football coaches.

According to Odegbami, Ikhana is currently critically ill in Auchi and was recently transferred to Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital for urgent care, including a life-saving blood transfusion.

“This is a man who gave so much to Nigerian football—as a player, coach, and mentor. Now he lies helpless, depending on the goodwill of others to stay alive,” Odegbami stated.

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He acknowledged the crucial intervention of Hon. Austin Braimoh, former Chairman of the South-South Police Service Commission, for stepping in to cover Ikhana’s rising medical bills and bringing his critical condition to public attention.

In a frail voice, Odegbami recounted, Ikhana managed to whisper a simple yet poignant request: “Tell Nigerians to pray for me.”

As he called for prayers and immediate assistance for Ikhana, Odegbami also issued a broader appeal for systemic reform in how Nigeria treats its sporting heroes.

He urged the Edo State Government, the National Sports Commission, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and well-meaning individuals to urgently intervene—not only to save Ikhana’s life but also to establish enduring structures that ensure former athletes receive proper healthcare and support after retirement.

Wrapping up his emotional plea, Odegbami also extended condolences over the reported passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari and the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, both reportedly on the same day, July 13, 2025.

“May the Creator of the Universe accept their souls back Home to Himself in their eternal Home,” he wrote.

A recent photograph of the ailing Kadiri Ikhana, who also serves as an Air Peace Ambassador, was attached to the appeal, serving as a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action.

“Please, let’s help him in any way we can,” Odegbami pleaded. “I do not know what else to say or do.”