The football world is in mourning following the death of former Nigeria international Michael Eneramo, who collapsed during a local friendly match in Kaduna.
NOP NIGERIA reports that Michael Eneramo fell on the pitch in Ungwan Yelwa on Friday morning, April 24, after playing the first half of the game. Early reports suggest the 40-year-old ex-Super Eagles forward suffered a cardiac arrest shortly after the restart.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the news, with general secretary Mohammed Sanusi expressing shock and sympathy.
“This is devastating. I am short of words at this moment. I can only pray that God will grant him eternal rest and also grant his loved ones and the Nigerian football family the fortitude to bear the loss,” Sanusi said.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) also paid tribute, stating, “A respected figure in Nigerian football, his impact on the game will not be forgotten. May his soul rest in peace.”
Eneramo built a strong reputation across Tunisia and Turkey, where he was widely admired for his power and finishing. He enjoyed legendary status at Espérance Sportive de Tunis, who led tributes on social media.
“It is with deep sadness that Espérance Sportive de Tunis bids farewell to one of its legends, Nigerian striker Michael Eneramo, who has just passed away,” the club wrote.
“Indeed, to God we belong and to Him we shall return. May God grant him eternal rest.”
Algerian side USM Alger added, “Farewell, Eneramo, and thank you for everything you gave to the club.”
Tributes also poured in from Turkey, where Eneramo played for Sivasspor, Beşiktaş, Galatasaray, Istanbul Başakşehir, Karabükspor and Istanbulspor.
Sivasspor said, “We have learned with profound sorrow of the passing of our former footballer Michael Eneramo.”
“He will always be remembered for the battles he fought under our red-and-white jersey. May our late player find mercy from God; we extend our condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Beşiktaş wrote, “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Michael Eneramo. We extend our condolences to his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Michael.”
Galatasaray added, “We are saddened to hear the passing of Michael Eneramo who played for multiple clubs in the Turkish Süper Lig.”
“Everyone at Galatasaray SK extends their condolences to his family, friends and the federation of Nigeria.”
Istanbulspor said, “We have learned with profound sorrow the news of the passing of Michael Eneramo, who previously wore the jersey of our national team. We wish him God’s mercy; and offer our condolences to his family, loved ones, and the football community.”
Turkish outlet Haber61 described him as a key figure in the country’s football history, noting he died following a heart attack.
Eneramo earned 10 caps for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, making his debut against Jamaica in London in 2009 and scoring his first international goal against the Republic of Ireland later that year. He also featured in World Cup qualifiers against Kenya and Tunisia, scoring a memorable goal in a 2-2 draw in Abuja.
At the club level, he remains the only Nigerian to score four goals in a single Algerian league match, a feat achieved against OMR El Annasser in 2005.
