The Nigerian football fraternity, led by Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) Chairman Mr Gbenga Elegbeleye, on Thursday paid a heartfelt condolence visit to the family of the late Mohammed Sani Abdul in Maiduguri.
The respected match commissioner tragically passed away in a motor accident on his way back to Maiduguri after officiating the NPFL matchday 32 clash between Plateau United and Kwara United in Jos.
The delegation, comprising all match commissioners and assessors of the NPFL, converged at the deceased’s residence within the University of Maiduguri staff quarters to offer their sympathies and support.
Upon arrival at Maiduguri International Airport, the delegation chairman, Mr Elegbeleye, was warmly received by the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) Executive Board member representing the North East, Babagana Kalli Kachalla Ozogler, who then accompanied them to the family’s home.
Speaking during the visit, a visibly moved Mr Elegbeleye conveyed the NFF and NPFL’s deep sorrow over the loss. “We are here today with heavy hearts to mourn the passing of a truly exceptional individual,” he stated.
“Late Mohammed Sani Abdul was a brilliant, hard-working, and highly respected match commissioner within our league. His dedication and professionalism were exemplary.”
He further added, “This loss is not just for his immediate family but for the entire football family in Borno State, the North East, and indeed, the whole country. We pray that Almighty God grants his soul eternal rest.”
The NFF Executive Board member, Babagana Kalli Kachalla, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the significant contribution of the late Abdul to the development of football in the region and beyond.
In attendance were prominent figures in Nigerian football, including FIFA-badged referee Grema Mohammed, Chairman of Elkanemi Warriors Football Club Alhaji Ibrahim Mainu Mustapha, Chairman of DMD Football Club Kwaya Kusar Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Biu, representatives of Borno State football club owners, various football stakeholders from the state, and the Chairman of the Match Commissioners Committee of Nigeria.
Responding on behalf of the bereaved family, the late Mohammed Sani Abdul’s son, Abdul Muiin Saad, expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support shown by the football community.
“We are deeply touched by this visit and the kind words spoken about our father,” he said. “We thank the NFF and the NPFL for recognising his dedication and hard work. It brings us some comfort during this difficult time.”
In a demonstration of solidarity and support, Mr. Elegbeleye, on behalf of the delegation and the NFF, presented a cash sum of two million, five hundred thousand Naira (₦2,500,000) to the family.
Two million Naira was contributed by the NFF and the NPFL, while the remaining five hundred thousand Naira was raised by the league’s match commissioners and assessors.
This gesture underscores the high regard in which the late Mohammed Sani Abdul was held within the Nigerian football fraternity and provides a measure of support to his grieving family during this trying period.
The football community continues to mourn the loss of a dedicated and respected member.
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