Rangers Media Officer Norbert Okolie Dies After Long Illness
Rangers International Football Club have announced the passing of their media officer, Norbert Okolie, who died on 16 November 2025 after a long battle with illness.
Okolie, born on 23 September 1973, was regarded as one of the most experienced media professionals in Nigerian football. He was an accomplished international journalist and photojournalist who covered several Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and the FIFA World Cup. His calm attitude, professionalism and dedication earned him great respect across the industry.
Rangers’ General Manager and CEO, Barrister Amobi Ezeaku, paid an emotional tribute in a series of WhatsApp messages. He wrote:
“Photo, you assured me a few days ago you would bounce back.”
“Rest in peace, Norbert. Go well, Photo.”
He added: “Life is but a walking shadow. May God grant your immediate family the strength and fortitude to bear this loss. Amen.”
Colleagues across the media have also shared heartfelt tributes. The Athletic NG described him as “a rare professional who raised the standard of football storytelling in Nigeria.”
Sports journalist Mmenyeneabasi Akpan said Okolie was “a genuine, selfless and steady presence in the profession, always respectful, always dependable — a man who made the job easier for everyone around him.”
His death has drawn widespread reactions from players, officials and journalists across the football community, reflecting the impact he made throughout his career.
