Auchi, Edo State, July 14 , 2025
Kadiri Ikhana, a revered former Super Eagles midfielder and 1980 Africa Cup of Nations winner, is fighting for his life at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital in Auchi, Edo State. The 73-year-old football legend was urgently transferred to the facility on Sunday for emergency blood transfusions and intensive care after his condition deteriorated significantly, according to former teammate Segun Odegbami.
Odegbami, a former Super Eagles captain, raised the alarm on Monday via social media, urging the National Sports Commission, Nigeria Football Federation, Edo State government, and kind-hearted Nigerians to intervene. “In a muffled voice, Kadiri begged me to ask Nigerians to pray for him,” Odegbami shared, highlighting the severity of Ikhana’s condition. The football icon, fondly known as “Kawawa,” has been receiving financial support from Hon. Braimoh to cover mounting medical bills, but more assistance is critically needed.
Ikhana’s illustrious career includes starring for Bendel Insurance, where he won the Nigerian league in 1979 and FA Cup titles in 1978 and 1980. He represented Nigeria at the 1980 Olympics and in FIFA World Cup qualifiers. After retiring, Ikhana became one of Nigeria’s most successful coaches and served as an ambassador for Air Peace, promoting Nigerian football.
This news follows the recent passing of other Super Eagles legends, including Peter Rufai and Christian Chukwu, prompting renewed concerns about the welfare of retired athletes. Odegbami plea underscores the urgency: “Another Eagle on death throes. I wish I did not have to do this…again.” Nigerians are rallying in prayer and support, hoping to save a national hero who has given so much to the sport.
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