LAGOS, May 15 (AGCNewsNet) – Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has called on Nigerians to pray for Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi, who is currently in an induced coma following emergency surgery for a ruptured intestine.

Awoniyi, 27, suffered the injury during the final moments of Nottingham Forest’s 2-2 draw against Leicester City on Sunday, May 11. The striker collided forcefully with the goalpost while attempting to reach a cross from teammate Anthony Elanga. Despite the injury, he tried to continue playing before being rushed to hospital on Monday evening.

Following urgent abdominal surgery on Tuesday, May 13, Awoniyi was placed in an induced coma to restrict movement and regulate his heart rate. Nottingham Forest officials confirmed the striker is "recovering well so far," with no indication that his condition is life-threatening.

Reacting to the news, Obi expressed deep concern and praised Awoniyi’s resilience and dedication. In a statement shared on his verified X page, Obi said:

"It is both painful and telling that, even after colliding with the goalpost and sustaining what has now been revealed as a ruptured intestine, he pressed on, a testament to the Nigerian spirit: strong, unyielding, and ever-committed."

Obi urged Nigerians, football authorities, and the broader community to keep Awoniyi and his family in their thoughts and prayers. He added,

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

The chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kwara state chapter, Ayodeji Ismail, also described the news as distressing and urged the football community to stand in solidarity with Awoniyi.

Taiwo Awoniyi, born in Kwara state, has been a key figure in Nigeria’s national team and a notable presence in English Premier League football. His injury has elicited widespread concern across Nigeria’s sports circles.

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Source: Legit.ng