Peter Fregene, a former Nigeria national team goalkeeper, is currently on life support at a hospital in Ohara, Delta State, fighting for his life in critical condition.
This grave update comes from Nigerian great Segun Odegbami, who conveyed the news on Wednesday, emphasizing the critical need for prayers and support for the ailing ex-international.
“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 manned the posts for the Super Eagles from 1968 to 1971 and represented Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico, has been grappling with health issues for several years.
Odegbami, a former Nigeria skipper, had earlier this week raised the alarm about Fregene’s deteriorating condition, disclosing that the former goalkeeper was hospitalised in Sapele and urgently needed medical attention and financial assistance.
“He is still waiting for help to come in order to be moved by ambulance to the Ohara Teaching Hospital, Ohara, Delta State,” Odegbami had stated on Tuesday.
Following the initial appeal, Odegbami reported an overwhelming response from concerned Nigerians. He clarified that while he is not personally involved in fundraising efforts, three individuals have volunteered to support Fregene’s treatment.
“I am not raising or collecting any funds on behalf of Peter’s family,” Odegbami emphasised.
“If the need arises, and I am requested and authorised to do so, I shall.”
The football legend expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, stating, “I thank all Nigerians for their concern and response to the humble cry of their hero currently in distress.”
Fregene’s plight has once again highlighted the challenges faced by retired Nigerian athletes. Odegbami lamented the lack of a functional welfare scheme for ex-sportspeople in the country.
“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 in the country to take care of our declining health in old age, long after our sports careers?” he questioned.
As the football community rallies around one of its own, all eyes are now on the relevant authorities and well-meaning Nigerians to come to Fregene’s aid in his hour of need.
Fregene, who was recalled to the national team for the 1982 African Cup of Nations finals, remains a revered figure in Nigerian football history. His current condition serves as a stark reminder of the challenges many retired athletes face in their twilight years.
