The Nigerian football community is in mourning after the sudden death of former youth international Gift Atulewa. The 38-year-old football star passed away in the early hours of November 12 due to complications from high blood pressure.
In a statement to Premium Times, Azuka Chiemeka, spokesperson for the Delta State Football Association, confirmed Atulewa’s passing at around 7 a.m. today. He added that the footballer had been managing his blood pressure but had worsened in recent days, being hospitalized for malaria before his condition deteriorated.
“We buried his wife last month, which could have contributed to his health decline,” Chiemeka shared. “He had been managing blood pressure issues for a while. Just two days ago, his condition worsened, and we lost him this morning.”
Atulewa had been actively involved in football, recently participating in an ex-international tournament in Delta State. He even scored the opening goal of the tournament with a trademark free-kick just weeks ago.
The former player had also returned recently from Côte d’Ivoire, where he completed a coaching course, though he will sadly not have the chance to use his new qualification.
A talented forward, Atulewa began his career with Bayelsa United before moving to Ocean Boys and Warri Wolves, where he gained prominence. He was also part of Nigeria’s U-20 team at the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship in the Netherlands.
Tragically, Atulewa becomes the third player from that U-20 squad to pass away, joining Olufemi Adebayo and Isaac Promise.
May his soul rest in peace. 🙏
