This archive report was first published on 25 May 2020.
On Saturday night, Nigerian football star Victor Osimhen suffered a devastating loss with the passing of his father, Mr. Patrick Osimhen, aged 80, in Lagos.
According to reports, Mr. Osimhen died after a brief illness, leaving behind a family that is now grappling with the pain of his loss.
Victor Osimhen, who plays for Lille OSC in France, took to social media to express his grief, writing, “RIP dad, no words to describe this feeling.”
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has reached out to the Super Eagles' forward, expressing its condolences and offering support during this challenging time.
President of the NFF, Mr. Amaju Melvin Pinnick, was among the first to reach out to Victor Osimhen, assuring him of the empathy and support of the country's football family.
Mr. Pinnick stated, “I have spoken to Victor Osimhen and expressed the sorrow of the NFF and the entire Nigerian Football family. His club, Lille OSC, has given him a private aircraft to come to Nigeria to be with his family and probably for the burial rites. We have applied for a landing permit, but we are yet to receive it. However, we are still on it and hopeful for the sake of the young lad.”
The NFF has also offered to facilitate Victor Osimhen's return to Nigeria, should he wish to do so, to be with his family during this difficult time.
Victor Osimhen is one of the most exciting prospects in Nigerian football, and his loss has sent shockwaves throughout the football community.
