UK-Based Nigerian Footballer Dies After Brain Injury
- Ajibade Omolade Chistianah
- 21 hours ago
- 2 min read
A Nigerian footballer based in the United Kingdom, Saburi Adeniji, has died following complications from a severe brain stem injury. Adeniji, a left winger for Kings Park Rangers Football Club, passed away on Friday morning, according to a statement released by the club on Saturday. He was popularly known among teammates and supporters as “Ola.”
The club disclosed that the footballer held on for as long as possible while efforts were made to bring his immediate family to the UK. His wife and young daughter arrived shortly after his death.
Kings Park Rangers described Adeniji as a committed professional, a devoted family man, and a cherished member of the team, noting that his loss has left the club and wider football community devastated.
The player had been receiving intensive medical care since mid-January. On January 17, the club publicly announced that Adeniji was critically ill and temporarily suspended all fixtures to focus on supporting him during his hospitalization.
As his condition deteriorated, the club launched a fundraising campaign to cover emergency travel and living expenses for his family, who were based in Nigeria. Medical updates shared at the time confirmed that Adeniji had been admitted to intensive care at Queen’s Hospital on January 15, where doctors later determined that his condition was irreversible.
Medical assessments indicated that he had been declared brain dead, although life support was maintained for a short period in line with UK medical procedures, allowing time for his family to be reunited with him.
Adeniji is survived by his wife and a four-year-old daughter. The club stated that proceeds from the fundraising efforts would go towards supporting his family, including securing his daughter’s education and long-term welfare.
Kings Park Rangers called on the football community to stand in solidarity with the bereaved family, describing Adeniji’s death as a painful loss that extends beyond the club.
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