Former Nigerian national team goalkeeper, Peter Fregene is currently on life support at a hospital in Ohara, Delta State, fighting for his life in critical condition.
This alarming update comes from Nigerian football legend, Segun Odegbami, who shared the news stressed the urgent need for prayers and support for the former Super Eagles star.
“Peter Fregene is in the hospital and on life support. His situation is critical,” Odegbami revealed in a statement. “What Peter Fregene needs the most now are our collective prayers that the will of His Creator be done.”
Fregene, who represented Nigeria from 1968 to 1971 and played at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico, has been battling health issues for several years. Earlier this week, Odegbami raised concerns about Fregene’s deteriorating condition, revealing that the ex-goalkeeper had been hospitalised in Sapele and was in urgent need of medical attention and financial support.
“He is still waiting for help to be moved by ambulance to the Ohara Teaching Hospital in Delta State,” Odegbami stated on Tuesday.
In response to the appeal, Odegbami reported a significant outpouring of concern from Nigerians. However, he clarified that he is not directly involved in fundraising efforts. “I am not raising or collecting any funds on behalf of Peter’s family,” Odegbami emphasized. “If the need arises and I am requested, I shall do so.”
Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support, Odegbami added, “I thank all Nigerians for their concern and response to the humble cry of their hero currently in distress.”
Fregene’s situation has reignited discussions about the struggles faced by retired Nigerian athletes. Odegbami lamented the absence of a reliable welfare system for ex-sportspeople, asking, “Why don’t we have, or why can’t we set up, even on our own, a simple welfare scheme for active and retired athletes across all sports to take care of our health in old age, long after our careers?”
As the football community rallies around one of its icons, there is hope that the authorities and compassionate Nigerians will step forward to support Fregene during this critical time.
Peter Fregene, who was recalled to the national team for the 1982 African Cup of Nations, remains a celebrated figure in Nigerian football history. His current condition highlights the ongoing challenges many retired athletes face as they age.
