A FORMER Super Eagles defender and 1980 Africa Cup of Nations winner, Kadiri Ikhana, is fighting for his life at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital in Auchi, Edo State, where he was transferred for emergency blood transfusion and intensive medical care.
The 68-year-old ex-international, who was a member of the Green Eagles squad that won Nigeria’s first AFCON title in Lagos 44 years ago, is in critical condition and requires urgent medical intervention to save his life.
A former Nigerian captain, Segun Odegbami, broke the news on Monday morning, revealing that “Ikhana has been transferred to the specialist hospital after his condition deteriorated significantly.”
The immediate past Chairman of the South-South Police Service Commission, Austin Braimoh, has been footing the mounting medical bills to keep the football legend alive.
Ikhana, affectionately known as “Kawawa,” was a key figure in Nigerian football during the late 1970s and early 1980s as a defender for both club and country.
He was an integral part of the Bendel Insurance FC squad that dominated domestic Nigerian football at the end of the 1970s, before earning his place in the national team setup.
The former soldier represented Nigeria at the 1980 AFCON in Nigeria, where the Green Eagles defeated Algeria 3-0 in the final at the National Stadium, Lagos, to claim the country’s maiden continental title.
After his playing career, Ikhana transitioned into coaching and became arguably the most successful coach in domestic football history in Nigeria.
He guided several clubs to domestic success and was known for his tactical acumen and ability to develop young players throughout his coaching career.
The former international was honoured with the Member of the Order of the Niger award in recognition of his contributions to Nigerian football both as a player and coach.
Ikhana also served as an ambassador for Air Peace, continuing his involvement in promoting Nigerian football even after retiring from active coaching.
The news of Ikhana’s critical condition comes amid growing concerns about the welfare of retired Nigerian footballers and the lack of adequate support systems for former internationals.
The football fraternity has witnessed the deaths of several former players in recent months, raising questions about the healthcare and welfare provisions for retired athletes.
Just two weeks ago, the football community mourned the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, who passed away at the age of 61 after a brief illness.
The pattern of neglect has drawn criticism from various quarters, with former players and stakeholders calling for better welfare packages and healthcare support for retired athletes who brought glory to the country.