Victor Osimhen and Super Eagles stars in Turkey safe after Earthquake hits Malatya Province

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen and several other Nigerian footballers playing in Turkey are safe after surviving an earthquake that struck the country early on Wednesday morning, October 16, 2024.

Osimhen recently joined the Turkish Super League, joining other Super Eagles stars like Kenneth Omeruo, Bright Osayi, and more. Currently, more than 20 Nigerian footballers, including eight Super Eagles players, ply their trade across Turkish clubs.

The 5.9-magnitude earthquake hit Malatya Province in Turkey’s eastern region at 10:46 a.m. local time, causing partial damage to structures. Turkish authorities have confirmed that no injuries or casualties have been recorded so far. As a precaution, schools were closed across affected areas.

Following the tremor, Galatasaray issued a statement on X (formerly Twitter), expressing relief that no loss of life or serious damage was reported. The club wrote:

“We hope that the earthquake, whose epicenter was in the Kale district of Malatya, will not cause any loss of life or property. We convey our well wishes to all citizens affected by the tremor.”

Several Turkish cities, including Diyarbakir and Elazig, also felt the effects of the earthquake, as well as parts of Syria. However, authorities have assured the public that the situation is under control.

Nigerian internationals, including Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa) and Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce), are among those confirmed to be safe. While the earthquake caused panic in the affected areas, no Super Eagles players were harmed during the incident.