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 sad news was confirmed on Friday, April 17, 2026, by veteran sports analyst Godwin Enakhena, sending shockwaves across the nation.
Details Surrounding Okomi's Passing
According to close associates and family members, Temisan Okomi succumbed to a severe asthma attack. His wife revealed that he was rushed to a hospital where, despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he could not be revived. Soliu Adeyemo, a colleague, provided further insight in an exclusive interview, noting that Okomi had been in good health earlier in the week and had actively resumed his duties at Classic FM.
Adeyemo explained that Okomi fell ill on Wednesday, which prevented him from returning to work, and he tragically passed away in the early hours of Friday. Reflecting on a past incident, Adeyemo recalled, "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."
Tributes and Reactions from the Community
In the wake of his passing, an outpouring of grief and admiration has flooded social media and professional circles. Colleagues, friends, and fans have shared heartfelt messages, highlighting Okomi's significant contributions to sports broadcasting in Nigeria.
- @Omojuwa wrote: "Temisan Okomi was an inspiring family man. Let’s do whatever we can to support them. Please reach out to my brother @biolakazeem if interested. Please let’s do this @PoojaMedia. We owe this one thing to him."
- @femstec said: "It's so sad, seeing him on HITV some 20 years ago was motivating, him alongside Bada Akintunde Johnson, Biola Kazeem, Ayodeji Omotoyinbo, Kibati Bankole etc. RIP to a legend."
- @arowolek expressed: "This is heartbreaking!!! I haven't seen his tweet for a while now and am wondering what could be wrong. He is going to be missed by his family and loved ones. I can't imagine how his son he was so proud of will be feeling at a time like this. May his soul rest in peace."
- @Agunbay01 added: "Nigeria just lost a broadcasting goat who actually shared the grass. RIP Temisan Okomi."
- @ShinaFasheun noted: "A great veteran I remember him at STV and Cool FM. He was part of the generation of Godwin Enakheina, Deji Omotoyinbo, Charles Anasodo, great sport journalist. I wish his family well."
Okomi's Last Public Engagement
Temisan Okomi's final public communication was a tweet during Arsenal's UEFA Champions League quarterfinal match against Sporting Lisbon on Tuesday, April 14. He posted, "The Champions League is hard, man," a sentiment that has since resonated deeply with his followers as they mourn his loss. His death occurred just three days after Arsenal qualified for the semifinals, adding a poignant layer to the tragedy.
Broader Context of Journalist Losses in Sports
This incident echoes a recent tragedy in the African football community, where Malian journalist Mohamed Soumare passed away suddenly while covering the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Rabat, Morocco. Soumare, a respected media officer, was found unresponsive in his hotel room, underscoring the vulnerabilities faced by sports journalists on assignment.
Temisan Okomi's career spanned several decades, with notable stints at HITV, Lagos Television, STV, Cool FM, and Classic FM. He was celebrated for his insightful commentary and dedication to sports journalism, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. As tributes continue to flow, his legacy as a pioneering voice in Nigerian sports media remains firmly intact.
