Former Nigerian U-20 international and FIFA World Cup silver medalist, Gift Atulewa, has passed away.
He died earlier on Tuesday, November 12 from complications relating to high blood pressure (HBP).
Azuka Chiemeka, spokesperson for the Delta State Football Association, confirmed the news, stating that the 38-year-old forward died around 7 a.m.
Chiemeka mentioned that Atulewa had lost his wife just last month, which might have impacted his health.
Although Atulewa had been managing his blood pressure, his condition worsened recently, prompting a hospital visit. Doctors noted he had malaria, but his blood pressure continued to escalate, ultimately leading to his passing.
Reflecting on Atulewa’s recent activities, Chiemeka shared: “There’s currently an ex-international football tournament happening in Delta State, and he was part of the ex-Uwei team. He scored the first goal of the tournament with a beautiful free kick about three weeks ago.”
Atulewa had recently returned from Côte d’Ivoire after completing a coaching course, though he would not have the chance to use his new certification.
The deceased football journey began with Bayelsa United F.C. before he moved to Ocean Boys F.C. and later Warri Wolves F.C., where he played a significant role.
He represented Nigeria in the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship in the Netherlands, where the team earned a silver medal. Sadly, Atulewa is the third member of that squad to pass away, following Olufemi Adebayo and Isaac Promise.