President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau, on Thursday paid a visit to Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi at his home in Nottingham, United Kingdom, following the player’s recent surgery.
Awoniyi, who plays for Premier League side Nottingham Forest, sustained a serious injury during a league game against Leicester City, which ended 2-2. The striker collided with the goalpost while attempting to score and, though he briefly continued, was later substituted and taken for medical assessment. Doctors later confirmed he had suffered a ruptured intestine, a life-threatening injury that required immediate surgery.
Gusau, who was accompanied by members of the NFF Executive Board, said the purpose of the visit was to check on the player’s condition and offer moral support.
“We are happy to see Taiwo in high spirits and recovering well,” Gusau said. “He is not just a key player for the Super Eagles but also a great ambassador for Nigerian football. We will continue to monitor his recovery and provide support where needed.”
The NFF President, who is also the newly elected President of the West African Football Union Zone B (WAFU B), also prayed for Awoniyi’s quick return to full fitness.
In response, Awoniyi expressed deep appreciation for the visit and thanked the NFF for showing concern about his wellbeing. He said his recovery was going smoothly under the supervision of medical experts and that he remained focused on returning to the pitch stronger than before.
“I’m grateful for this visit. It means a lot to me,” Awoniyi said. “I’m doing everything possible to get back to full strength and help both my club and country again.”
The NFF’s visit underlines the Federation’s commitment to player welfare and the importance it places on maintaining strong ties with Nigerian footballers abroad.
Awoniyi’s injury had raised concern among fans and club officials, especially considering his growing influence in both the Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest squads. His recovery remains a priority, and he continues to receive close monitoring from medical personnel.
The gesture from the NFF has been praised by fans and stakeholders as a sign of leadership that puts the players first.
