Tijani Babangida Calls for Unity Among Nigerian Footballers After Tragic Accident
Mercy Adi
In a heartfelt appeal, former Nigeria Super Eagles winger Tijani Babangida has urged past and present footballers in Nigeria to set aside their differences and unite for the greater good. Babangida, who recently endured a devastating car accident that claimed the lives of his younger brother Ibrahim and his son Fadeel, is currently recovering in a European hospital, thanks in part to the support of former players from Roda JC of Holland.
The Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN) president emphasized that the aid he received was a testament to the power of solidarity among former players. To lift his spirits during this challenging time, the former players organized a “Get Well Dinner” in his honor, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to his recovery and that of his wife, who remains in the hospital.
Babangida, affectionately known as TJ, stressed that such acts of unity should be the standard within players’ unions, rather than engaging in unnecessary conflicts. “This is what players must do,” he remarked. “Players must be there for each other during and after football because they have become one family.”
He expressed a deep desire for a similar spirit of generosity and support among Nigerian players, both current and former. “We cannot rely on outsiders for support all the time,” he stated. “We must implement programs that enable us to support ourselves, just as it is done in Europe and other advanced nations.”
Babangida emphasized the need for footballers to work together and support one another to achieve collective goals. “We will gain nothing by fighting ourselves; only by coming together can we truly make progress. This is my prayer and my mission when I return to Nigeria,” he concluded, overwhelmed with gratitude for the support he has received.
His message of unity and mutual support is expected to resonate deeply within the Nigerian football community, encouraging a more collaborative and supportive environment for players across the nation.
