Nigerian Sports Journalism Mourns Loss of Veteran Presenter Temisan Okomi
The Nigerian sports community has been plunged into deep sorrow following the untimely death of veteran sports journalist and radio presenter Temisan Okomi. The tragic news was confirmed on Friday, April 17, 2026, by respected sports analyst Godwin Enakhena, sending shockwaves through the industry.
Sudden Illness and Passing
According to close associates, Okomi fell ill on Wednesday and was unable to return to his duties at Classic FM, where he had recently resumed work. His wife revealed that he was rushed to the hospital after suffering an asthma attack, but despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he passed away in the early hours of Friday. Colleagues noted that he had been in good health earlier in the week, making his sudden demise all the more heartbreaking.
Career Highlights and Legacy
Temisan Okomi was a prominent figure in Nigerian sports media, with a career spanning decades. He was well-known for his work at HITV and Lagos Television, where he inspired many with his professionalism and passion. His last public activity was a tweet during Arsenal's UEFA Champions League quarterfinal match against Sporting Lisbon on April 14, where he remarked, "The Champions League is hard, man."
Fellow journalist Soliu Adeyemo recalled a previous health scare during a pre-Olympic show in 2012, highlighting Okomi's resilience. He said, "I remember, he had an attack during a pre-Olympic show series we produced then, It was London 2012. He was the presenter and Enefiok Udo Obong was the guest. It was serious but he got back his composure after a period of time."
Outpouring of Tributes
Tributes have flooded in from across Nigeria, with friends, colleagues, and fans expressing their grief and admiration for Okomi's contributions to sports journalism. Notable reactions include:
- @Omojuwa described him as an inspiring family man and called for support for his loved ones.
- @femstec reminisced about watching him on HITV two decades ago, praising his motivational presence alongside other legends like Bada Akintunde Johnson and Biola Kazeem.
- @arowolek expressed heartbreak, noting his absence on social media and concern for his proud son.
- @Agunbay01 hailed him as a broadcasting great who truly understood the field.
- @ShinaFasheun remembered his work at STV and Cool FM, placing him among a generation of esteemed journalists like Godwin Enakheina and Deji Omotoyinbo.
Broader Context of Loss in Sports Media
This tragedy comes amid other recent losses in the African sports journalism community. Legit.ng previously reported the sudden death of Malian journalist Mohamed Soumare, who was found unresponsive in his hotel room while covering the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Rabat, Morocco. Soumare served as a media officer for Stade Malien de Bamako and head of marketing and media at the Malian Professional League, underscoring the risks and pressures faced by professionals in the field.
The passing of Temisan Okomi leaves a significant void in Nigerian sports broadcasting, with his legacy remembered through his dedication, insightful commentary, and impact on countless viewers and listeners. As the community grapples with this loss, his family and colleagues are in the thoughts of many across the nation.
