President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Musa Gusau, on Thursday paid a courtesy visit to Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi at his residence in Nottingham, United Kingdom, to check on the forward’s recovery progress following a serious injury.
Gusau was accompanied by members of the NFF Executive Board, as the delegation offered words of encouragement and support to the Nottingham Forest star, who is currently recuperating from surgery.
Speaking during the visit, Gusau expressed his relief and happiness at seeing Awoniyi in good spirits and making steady progress in his rehabilitation. He offered prayers for the 26-year-old’s full recovery, noting that the striker remains an important figure for both club and country.
“Taiwo is not only a key player for the Super Eagles but also a great ambassador of Nigerian football,” Gusau said. “We’re here to show support and reassure him that the NFF is solidly behind him during this difficult period.”
The NFF President, who also recently assumed leadership as President of the West African Football Union (WAFU) Zone B, emphasized the Federation’s commitment to the welfare of national team players at home and abroad. He assured that the NFF would continue to monitor Awoniyi’s condition and provide any necessary support to aid his full recovery.
In his response, Awoniyi expressed deep appreciation for the visit, describing it as a morale booster. He thanked the NFF leadership for their show of love and solidarity, and shared optimism about his recovery.
“I’m truly grateful to the NFF President and his team for this visit. It means a lot to me,” Awoniyi said. “I’m focused on my recovery and working closely with medical professionals to return to the pitch stronger than ever.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Awoniyi sustained a serious injury during a Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Leicester City, which ended 2-2. He suffered a ruptured intestine after a collision with the goalpost while attempting to score. Although he continued playing for a while, he was eventually substituted and rushed for medical assessment.
The injury required emergency surgery, and since then, Awoniyi has been recovering at home under strict medical supervision and with ongoing support from Nottingham Forest’s medical team.
The NFF’s visit underscores its proactive approach to player welfare and its commitment to maintaining close ties with Nigerian footballers plying their trade across the globe.
