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Nigerian Football Community Mourns as Coach Justine Madugu Loses Sister at 58
The Nigerian football community is in mourning following the passing of Madam Mary Aso’Apuro Madugu, elder sister of Super Falcons head coach Justine Madugu, who died at the age of 58.
Her death on April 4, 2026, confirmed by family sources, has sparked an outpouring of sympathy from across the football fraternity. Colleagues, players, and supporters have rallied around the respected coach, offering prayers and condolences during this difficult time.
The tragic loss comes just months after Madugu achieved a historic milestone with the Nigeria women’s national football team. He guided the team to a record-extending 10th continental title at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco, delivering one of the most remarkable comebacks in African women’s football history.
In a dramatic final against the Morocco women’s national football team, Nigeria overturned a 2–0 deficit to secure a stunning 3–2 victory—reaffirming their dominance on the continent and cementing Madugu’s growing reputation on the global stage.
Despite his professional success, the coach now faces a profound personal loss. Family members described the late Madam Mary Aso’Apuro Madugu as a pillar of strength whose life was marked by humility, compassion, and unwavering faith.
Funeral rites will begin with a Christian wake on April 13, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., followed by her burial on April 14, 2026, at the LCCN Church G/Mallam. The funeral service is scheduled to commence at 9:00 a.m.
As tributes continue to pour in, the football community stands united in grief, extending heartfelt condolences to Justine Madugu and his family, and praying for strength and comfort in this period of mourning.
