The Nigeria Football Federation has praised Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis for his swift and compassionate response to striker Taiwo Awoniyi’s serious injury during a Premier League match against Leicester City on May 11.
Awoniyi, 27, suffered an abdominal injury after colliding with the goalpost during the game at the City Ground.
Though he was briefly treated and allowed to continue playing, the severity of the injury soon became apparent, forcing him to leave the field.
Forest had already exhausted their substitution windows and could not replace him.
Marinakis, visibly upset over the situation, stormed onto the pitch to confront the coaching staff, showing deep concern for the Nigerian forward’s condition.
The NFF’s General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, expressed gratitude in a formal letter to the club, commending the owner and management for their actions following the incident.
“We must praise the swift action of Nottingham Forest’s leadership in managing this injury, particularly the deep concern shown by the club’s CEO who was present on the pitch and involved afterward,” Sanusi stated.
Awoniyi underwent emergency abdominal surgery and was placed in an induced coma to aid recovery.
The second phase of his operation was completed on May 15.
In a statement released over the weekend, the Super Eagles striker acknowledged the support he received.
“This season has been one of the most difficult of my career,” Awoniyi said.
“But through it all, I have felt the love… I’m grateful to still be here, still fighting, and in good spirits.”
Forest players showed solidarity during their 2-1 victory over West Ham on Sunday, warming up in T-shirts that read, “We are all with you Taiwo.”
The NFF said it hopes for a full recovery and expressed its desire to personally connect with Awoniyi when he is well enough.
“We trust that you will somehow deliver our message of deep empathy to his friends, teammates, and loved ones,” Sanusi concluded.
