Peter Obi sends prayers for Taiwo Awoniyi after Nigerian placed in induced coma

By Monsurah Olatunji

Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has expressed deep concern and support for Nigerian footballer Taiwo Awoniyi, who is currently in an induced coma following a serious abdominal injury sustained during a Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Leicester City.

The Super Eagles striker reportedly collided with the goalpost and continued to play despite being in visible pain.

Medical reports confirm that while his condition is not life-threatening, he required emergency surgery and was placed in a medically induced coma pending further treatment.

In a statement shared on social media, Obi praised Awoniyi’s courage and resilience, calling him a “resilient son of the soil” and a symbol of the “unyielding Nigerian spirit.”

“I read with deep concern the unfortunate incident involving our own Taiwo Awoniyi… Even after colliding with the goalpost, he pressed on — a testament to the Nigerian spirit: strong, unyielding, and ever-committed,” Obi said.

Obi urged Nigerians to support the injured striker and his family during this difficult time. “Let us not take this lightly. We must appreciate and celebrate such young men who continue to lift our flag high, even at great personal risk,” he added.

He called on sports authorities and the wider community to stand in solidarity with Awoniyi, emphasizing the need for a country that values and supports its athletes.

“May he recover fully and return stronger,” Obi concluded. “And may we build a country where such sacrifice is not in vain, where patriotism is matched with proper care, recognition, and support.”

Awoniyi, 26, has been a key figure for Nottingham Forest and the Nigerian national team. Updates on his condition are expected from medical staff in the coming days.