Super Eagles Star Victor Osimhen Offers Emotional Support to Grieving Teammates
The Nigerian football community has been united in grief as two prominent Super Eagles players, Wilfred Ndidi and Samuel Chukwueze, suffered the devastating loss of their parents within a short timeframe. In response to these heartbreaking events, their teammate and fellow national team star Victor Osimhen has stepped forward with a public message of solidarity and comfort.
Tragic Circumstances Surrounding the Losses
The period of mourning began when Wilfred Ndidi's father, Sunday Ndidi, tragically passed away following a road accident in Umunede, near Agbor in Delta State. This incident sent shockwaves through the football world, with many expressing their condolences to the Leicester City midfielder.
As tributes continued to pour in for Ndidi's father, another sorrowful announcement emerged on Thursday, January 29, 2026. Samuel Chukwueze's mother, Mrs. Sarah Chukwueze, passed away after battling a brief illness, compounding the grief within the Super Eagles camp.
Osimhen's Heartfelt Public Message
Victor Osimhen, currently playing for Turkish giants Galatasaray, took to social media to publicly express his condolences to both teammates. In a touching Instagram post directed at Ndidi and Chukwueze, Osimhen wrote: "Dear brothers, Chukwueze and Ndidi, may God grant your parents eternal peace and give you the strength and comfort needed during this difficult time."
The message quickly garnered significant attention from fans and fellow athletes, with many praising Osimhen for his timely show of support during this challenging period for his colleagues.
Deep Bonds Between the Players
The connection between Osimhen, Ndidi, and Chukwueze extends beyond their current roles as Super Eagles teammates. Osimhen and Chukwueze share a particularly strong bond that dates back to their youth football days. Both players were members of Nigeria's triumphant 2015 FIFA Under-17 World Cup squad, forging a friendship that has endured through their professional careers.
The trio have also achieved significant milestones together while representing Nigeria:
- Bronze medals at the 2019 and 2026 Africa Cup of Nations tournaments
- A silver medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations
- Numerous World Cup qualifying campaigns
The Importance of Family in Their Careers
Both Ndidi and Chukwueze have consistently acknowledged the crucial role their parents played in their football journeys and personal development. Ndidi famously paid tribute to his father during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations by performing a celebratory gesture reminiscent of Nigerian football legend Nwankwo Kanu's family dedications after scoring goals.
Chukwueze maintained an especially close relationship with his mother, who had been a constant presence in his life and career. The Fulham winger had used her photograph as his Instagram profile picture for years and involved her in various charitable initiatives in their hometown in Abia State.
Broader Football Community Response
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has officially confirmed the passing of Mrs. Sarah Chukwueze and expressed profound sadness over the loss. In their statement, the commission offered words of comfort to the footballer and his family during this difficult period.
The double tragedies have deeply affected the Super Eagles camp, with football stakeholders across Nigeria rallying around Ndidi and Chukwueze. The football community continues to offer support as both players navigate this profoundly challenging chapter in their lives.
