It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of former Heartland FC coach and Nigerian football icon, Christian Obi. The 57-year-old coach tragically lost his life on Friday, August 23, following a severe bus accident involving the Heartland FC team.

The accident occurred in Okigwe, Imo State, as the team was en route to Abakaliki in Ebonyi State for the Ifeanyi Ekwueme TICO/SELECT pre-season tournament. Obi was seated at the front of the Heartland FC bus when it collided with a tipper truck while trying to avoid an oncoming vehicle. The front of the bus was badly damaged.

Christian Obi was rushed to the hospital but sadly passed away before reaching medical care. Several other players and team officials were also injured in the crash and are currently receiving treatment.

NFF President Ibrahim Musa Gusau confirmed the tragic news, expressing shock and sorrow over the loss. In a heartfelt statement, he extended condolences to Coach Obi’s family, friends, and the Imo State Football Association. Gusau also offered sympathies to the Imo State Government, which owns Heartland FC, and prayed for the injured to recover quickly.

Obi was a seasoned footballer and coach, having served as a youth international goalkeeper for Nigeria. He was part of the Nigerian team that competed in the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul. Last season, he led Heartland FC, though the team faced relegation under his management.

Christian Obi’s passing is a huge loss to the Nigerian football community, and he will be remembered for his contributions both on and off the pitch. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, teammates, and all those affected by this tragic accident.