In a recent interview, former Green Eagles winger Chief Segun Odegbami raised serious concerns about the deteriorating health of Peter Fregene, Nigeria’s former first-choice goalkeeper. Odegbami shared a heartbreaking image of Fregene lying in a hospital bed at the Obule Medical Centre in Sapele, Delta State, emphasizing how drastically Fregene’s condition has changed from the once vibrant athlete who safeguarded Nigeria’s goal.
Fregene, who represented Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics, dedicated nearly three decades to the national football team during the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. Odegbami, affectionately known as “Mathematical,” expressed his deep frustration, stating, “It pains me to share this ‘horror’ picture. I wish I could help my colleague without having to resort to public appeals to the same few generous Nigerians who have always supported our retired football heroes when they’re in need.”
He reflected on the many philanthropists who have previously stepped in to assist former athletes, but he lamented the waning goodwill from benefactors like Femi Otedola, Mike Adenuga, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Babatunde Fashola, Benson Ejindu, and Allen Onyema. “I worry we may have exhausted our goodwill with them. Even if they haven’t complained, it’s disheartening to have to approach them again,” Odegbami, also known as Big Sheg, added.
Odegbami raised a critical question about the lack of a welfare program for past athletes, highlighting that this issue remains unresolved 64 years after Nigeria gained independence. “Why can’t we create a simple welfare scheme for both active and retired athletes across all sports? They should have support long after their athletic careers end. This isn’t rocket science; all it takes is the will, hard work, and a few dedicated individuals with integrity,” he asserted.
He further emphasized the government’s repeated disregard for the welfare of athletes. “After 64 years of independence, it doesn’t seem they’ll prioritize it anytime soon,” he stated bluntly.
Odegbami closed the conversation with a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by sports figures, using Fregene’s situation as a prime example. “He’s still waiting for assistance to be transferred to the Oghara Teaching Hospital in Delta State. He has been waiting since Monday. I genuinely hope that Globacom, who has supported him for the past year, will step up again to help him.”
