Tijani Babangida’s family tragically Involved in fatal car accident which claims lives
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Ex-Nigeria International Tijani Babangida and his family were reportedly caught in a tragic motor accident on the Kaduna-Zaria highway.
As already confirmed, the accident claimed the life of his Tijani’s younger brother, Ibrahim Babangida
Tijani, renowned for his exploits as part of Nigeria’s Super Eagles and notably as a gold medalist at the Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games, was involved in the accident on Thursday.
The news was relayed by former teammate Emmanuel Babayaro, who serves as the General Secretary of PFAN. In a statement, Babayaro conveyed condolences and requested prayers for Tijani and his family as they navigate this devastating loss.
The statement read: “Comrades! Let us keep Tijani Babangida and his family in our prayers, as they were involved in a tragic motor accident along the Kaduna-Zaria road. Ibrahim Babangida, his younger brother, lost his life in the accident, while Mr. President (Babangida) and his family were taken to the hospital. May the soul of Ibrahim Babangida Rest In Peace with God, amen.”
Subsequent reports circulating in Nigerian media outlets sadly indicate that Tijani himself succumbed to injuries sustained in the accident. While the Nigeria Football Federation has yet to issue an official statement to confirm these reports, the potential loss of Tijani Babangida would deeply impact the Nigerian football community, mourning the loss of a true icon.
Tijani’s legacy in football extends across five countries and three continents, with a notable stint in the Netherlands where he represented esteemed clubs like VVV-Venlo, Roda JC, Ajax, and Vitesse during his nine-year tenure.
Meanwhile, Ibrahim Babangida, Tijani’s brother, carved his own path in Nigerian football, notably playing for Bank of the North, Stationary Store FC, and Katsina United before venturing to the Netherlands to join Volendam from 1997 to 2002, where he made 51 appearances and scored 7 goals for the Dutch side.
