EX-SUPER EAGLES DEFENDER, KADIRI IKHANA BATTLES FOR LIFE, RUSHED TO SPECIALIST HOSPITAL
Read Time:2 Minute, 19 Second
By: Sefiu Ajape
A former Super Eagles defender and 1980 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champion, Kadiri Ikhana, is currently battling for his life at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital in Auchi, Edo State, where he was rushed for emergency blood transfusion and critical medical care.
The 68-year-old football icon, who played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s historic first AFCON triumph in Lagos 44 years ago as part of the legendary Green Eagles squad, is reported to be in a severe condition and urgently in need of life-saving treatment.
The development was disclosed on Monday morning by former national team captain, Segun Odegbami, who confirmed that Ikhana’s health had “deteriorated significantly,” prompting his transfer to the specialist hospital for advanced care.
It was gathered that Austin Braimoh, the immediate past Chairman of the South-South Police Service Commission, has been covering the escalating medical expenses to ensure the football great receives the treatment he needs.
Ikhana, affectionately known as “Kawawa,” was a key figure in Nigerian football during the late 1970s and early 1980s as a defender for both club and country.
He was an integral part of the Bendel Insurance FC squad that dominated domestic Nigerian football at the end of the 1970s, before earning his place in the national team setup.
The former soldier represented Nigeria at the 1980 AFCON in Nigeria, where the Green Eagles defeated Algeria 3-0 in the final at the National Stadium, Lagos, to claim the country’s maiden continental title.
After his playing career, Ikhana transitioned into coaching and became arguably the most successful coach in domestic football history in Nigeria.
He guided several clubs to domestic success and was known for his tactical acumen and ability to develop young players throughout his coaching career.
The former international was honoured with the Member of the Order of the Niger award in recognition of his contributions to Nigerian football both as a player and coach.
Ikhana also served as an ambassador for Air Peace, continuing his involvement in promoting Nigerian football even after retiring from active coaching.
The news of Ikhana’s critical condition comes amid growing concerns about the welfare of retired Nigerian footballers and the lack of adequate support systems for former internationals.
The football fraternity has witnessed the deaths of several former players in recent months, raising questions about the healthcare and welfare provisions for retired athletes.
Just two weeks ago, the football community mourned the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, who passed away at the age of 61 after a brief illness.
The pattern of neglect has drawn criticism from various quarters, with former players and stakeholders calling for better welfare packages and healthcare support for retired athletes who brought glory to the country.
Happy
0 %
Sad
0 %
Excited
0 %
Sleepy
0 %
Angry
0 %
Surprise
0 %
0
0