Former Nigerian football star, Tijani Babangida, is receiving a significant show of support from his former clubs in the Netherlands, as Ajax, VVV Venlo, and Roda JC Kerkrade join forces to raise at least €170,000 (about N270million) for his ongoing medical treatment.
This support comes after a tragic accident in May, which left Babangida’s family devastated and has forced the former international to seek specialized treatment in the Netherlands.
Babangida, a key player in Nigeria’s 1996 Olympic gold medal-winning football team, has been in the Netherlands with his wife for medical care after surviving the horrific road accident along the Kaduna–Zaria Road in Nigeria.
The accident claimed the lives of Babangida’s one-year-old son, Fadil, and his younger brother, Ibrahim. Babangida, his wife, and their maid sustained serious injuries in the crash.
After initial treatment at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital and another medical facility in Abuja, Babangida’s condition worsened. He and his wife were later flown to the Netherlands with the help of his former teammates, where they have been receiving ongoing care.
Babangida’s wife recently underwent her first major surgery on her face, with several more surgeries scheduled in the coming months.
As for Babangida, he is undergoing knee surgery and intense rehabilitation to recover from the accident’s severe physical effects. Both are struggling with the financial burden of their treatment, which is estimated to cost at least €170,000.
The funds raised through crowdfunding are intended to cover the cost of these treatments and other associated expenses.
In an article titled Tijjani Babangida’s Suffering: “He Laughs on the Outside, But Cries on the Inside,” it was revealed that the former footballer’s financial situation is dire. Babangida reportedly lost all his savings due to poor investments and failed projects in Nigeria, leaving him unable to afford the medical treatment required for both himself and his wife.
Despite his financial challenges, Babangida expressed immense gratitude towards his former clubs, Ajax, VVV Venlo, and Roda JC, for their generous support. These clubs have rallied to organize the crowdfunding campaign, hoping to raise enough money to cover the couple’s medical expenses.
Babangida could not hide his appreciation, stating, “Fortunately, Ajax, VVV, and Roda have all offered to help me. They have joined forces so that not only a few people, but everyone can help through crowdfunding. This is to pay my wife’s medical expenses. I think that’s very beautiful. I don’t know how to thank them.”
The former Nigerian international also praised the personal care and support his former teammates have shown.
“They did everything for me. When I came here, my driver’s license was no longer valid. They took me everywhere. Not only to the hospital but also to the rehabilitation centre, Adelante. My wife’s arm is paralysed. She can’t use it anymore. Rehabilitation will take months,” Babangida explained.
Babangida’s career as a footballer in the Netherlands was both successful and impactful. He played for Roda JC from 1991 to 1996, before joining Ajax, where he spent seven years, from 1996 to 2003.
While at Ajax, he won an Eredivisie title in 1998 and two Dutch Cup trophies, scoring 20 goals in 77 appearances for the club.
Before joining Ajax, Babangida also had a loan spell at VVV Venlo from 1991 to 1993. His time in Dutch football was marked by excellence on the field, and he became well-known in the country for his pace and skill, particularly as a winger.
Babangida’s success at Ajax and Roda JC has earned him a special place in the hearts of fans and fellow footballers in the Netherlands, which explains the outpouring of support for him during this difficult time.
The crowdfunding campaign led by Babangida’s former clubs in the Netherlands is not only a financial lifeline but also a way to raise awareness about the struggles he and his family are facing. Babangida has urged his fans and well-wishers to continue supporting him as he navigates through this challenging period in his life.
The tragedy has highlighted the challenges many former athletes face after their careers end. While Babangida achieved great things in football, the financial instability caused by poor investments has left him struggling in his time of need.
Babangida’s situation brings to light the broader issue of athlete welfare, particularly after retirement. Many athletes in Nigeria, like Babangida, face financial hardships after they retire, as they may not have saved enough or invested wisely during their active years.
Babangida’s role in Nigeria’s 1996 Olympic gold medal win remains one of the highlights of his career. His pace and attacking flair were key factors in the team’s success, and his contributions to Nigerian football have left a lasting legacy.
While his football career is behind him, the outpouring of support he is receiving from Ajax, VVV Venlo, and Roda JC proves that his impact as a player continues to be felt long after his playing days.
