The Nigerian football community is grieving the loss of former Green Eagles goalkeeper Peter Fregene, who passed away after a prolonged illness. His death was confirmed by Segun Odegbami, his close friend and former teammate, on Sunday. Fregene, often called ' Apo' or ' Flying Cat' for his incredible agility, died peacefully surrounded by his wife, Tina, and two children. After being on life support for the past week, he finally succumbed to his health issues, closing a significant chapter in Nigerian football history.
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Fregene had faced health challenges for several years. Earlier in 2024, Segun Odegbami made a public appeal for financial support to help cover Fregene' s rising medical expenses. At that time, Fregene was undergoing treatment at a hospital in Sapele, Delta State, but required specialized care beyond the available resources. Although some aid came from generous individuals, including an ambulance provided by Tony Ojesina, the financial needs exceeded the support. Odegbami highlighted the struggles faced by retired athletes in Nigeria, emphasizing the absence of a welfare system for sports veterans.
In a heartwarming development, Fregene received financial support for his medical treatment from three Nigerians. Fregene, who was critically ill at Obule Medical Centre in Sapele, was battling severe health issues. Segun Odegbami, a former Nigerian international, shared this uplifting news, expressing his deep gratitude to the benefactors. He acknowledged the critical role of financial assistance while urging people to pray for Fregene' s recovery, underscoring the power of spiritual support in challenging times.
Peter Fregene, a celebrated goalkeeper who represented Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics, had been in declining health, prompting an outpouring of concern and support from Nigerians. His wife, Tina, played a crucial role throughout his illness, managing his care and ensuring he received the necessary treatment. Her dedication proved vital in helping him through his health struggles.
The entertainment industry has faced multiple losses recently. In Nigeria, veteran actor Jerry Amilo tragically lost his daughter, a heartbreaking event he shared on Instagram. The Nollywood community offered their condolences, with actors expressing their sympathy on social media. Additionally, Nollywood actor Saheed Balogun faced the loss of his daughter, Zeenat Balogun, further deepening the sorrow within the Nigerian entertainment world.
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