Kadiri Ikhana, a 1980 Africa Cup of Nations champion and former Super Eagles defender, is battling for his life at Auchi, Edo State’s Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital after being transferred there for critical medical treatment and an emergency blood transfusion.
An immediate medical intervention is necessary to preserve the life of the 68-year-old former international, who was a member of the Green Eagles team that won Nigeria’s first AFCON title in Lagos 44 years ago.
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.”
Austin Braimoh, the immediate past chairman of the South-South Police Service Commission, has been paying the mounting medical expenses in order to keep the football icon 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 switched into coaching and became arguably the most successful coach in domestic football history in Nigeria.
Throughout his coaching career, he led a number of clubs to domestic success and was renowned for his tactical sense and capacity to nurture young players.
The former international received the Member of the Order of the Niger award in appreciation of his achievements 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, sparked concerns 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.
Numerous parties have criticised the pattern of neglect, with stakeholders and former athletes demanding improved welfare benefits and medical assistance for retired athletes who have brought honour to the nation.
