Monday July 14, 2025
By TheNewsDESK |
Former Nigerian international and ex-Super Eagles winger Okwuchukwu Waobikeze, has died.
His death was confirmed on Monday, July 14, by his brother, Eli Waobikeze, in a statement posted on Facebook.
According to the statement, the former footballer passed away peacefully at approximately 7:34 pm Central Standard Time.
“On behalf of the Waobikeze family, I would like to announce the peaceful passing to eternal glory of my brother Allen Okwuchukwu Waobikeze,” Eli wrote.
He also thanked those who had shown support during his brother’s illness, noting that details regarding funeral arrangements would be shared in due course.
Nicknamed ‘Babaoo’ by fans, Waobikeze was known for his skillful play on the left wing and his dominant left foot.
Though he made only limited appearances for the national team due to strong competition for places, he made notable contributions to Nigeria’s domestic league. His club career included spells at Sharks FC of Port Harcourt, BCC Lions of Gboko, and Iwuanyanwu Nationale (now Heartland FC).
Waobikeze’s death follows closely after the passing of another former national team player, Peter Rufai, who captained the Super Eagles and served as first-choice goalkeeper during the 1990s.
Tributes from fans and former teammates have begun to surface as the Nigerian football community mourns the loss of another former international.
