Kadiri Ikhana, a former Super Eagles defender and member of Nigeria’s 1980 Africa Cup of Nations-winning team, is currently fighting for his life at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital in Auchi, Edo State.
The 68-year-old football legend was recently transferred to the facility for an emergency blood transfusion and intensive medical care following a rapid deterioration in his health.
The distressing news was made public on Monday morning by Segun Odegbami, former Nigerian captain and Ikhana’s teammate during Nigeria’s historic 1980 AFCON campaign. “Ikhana has been transferred to the specialist hospital after his condition deteriorated significantly,” Odegbami confirmed.
Ikhana, affectionately nicknamed “Kawawa” for his commanding presence on the pitch, is remembered as a formidable defender who played a crucial role in Nigeria’s first continental triumph. The Green Eagles, as they were then known, secured the AFCON title by defeating Algeria 3-0 in the final at the National Stadium in Lagos.
Beyond his playing days, Ikhana carved out a successful coaching career, becoming one of the most decorated tacticians in Nigerian domestic football history. He guided clubs like Enyimba FC to glory and was celebrated for his tactical intelligence and ability to mentor emerging talent.
In recognition of his services to the nation through football, Ikhana was honoured with the national title of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON). He also served as an ambassador for Air Peace, contributing to the promotion of sports and national pride even after retiring from coaching.
Currently, his medical expenses are being covered by Austin Braimoh, the immediate past Chairman of the South-South Police Service Commission, who has stepped in to help during this critical period.
Ikhana’s situation once again shines a spotlight on the alarming trend of retired Nigerian athletes grappling with serious health issues and insufficient support.
The recent passing of former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai at 61 has only added to the urgency of addressing the lack of adequate healthcare and welfare systems for former national players.
Several former players and sports stakeholders have raised concerns over the neglect of national heroes who once brought glory to the country. Many are calling for institutional reforms to ensure these individuals are not left to battle life-threatening conditions without national assistance.
As Ikhana remains in critical condition, fans and colleagues across the nation are rallying in support, offering prayers and urging the government and football authorities to take immediate action to secure better medical and financial support for the country’s retired sports icons.
For now, the football world watches anxiously, hoping for the recovery of one of its finest defenders and a true legend of the Nigerian game.
