MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS CONFIRMS THE SUDDEN DEMISE OF NIGERIAN PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLER IN UGANDA

Late Mr. Abubakar Lawal

"The Ministry wishes to buttress the fact that Nigeria values the strong bilateral relations with Uganda, therefore we are confident that the Ugandan authorities will handle this matter with utmost seriousness and sensitivity." Foreign Affairs Ministry.

.....  Calls for calm and patience as the investigation unfolds and urges the public to refrain from speculation that could hinder the process.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is deeply saddened by the tragic death of Mr. Abubakar Lawal, a Nigerian professional footballer, in Uganda. 

"In this moment of grief, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and the entire Nigerian football community during this difficult time. Late Abubakar Lawal was a former Nigerian Under-20 International footballer, and until his unfortunate demise, he was playing professional football with Vipers Football Club in Uganda and was also a final year Business Administration student of Cavendish University."

A statement from the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Abuja disclosed that "the Ministry has been in contact with the Nigerian High Commission in Kampala, Uganda, which is working closely with local authorities to ascertain the circumstances surrounding his untimely death. We are committed to ensuring that a thorough and transparent investigation is conducted, including an autopsy to verify the cause of death. The Ministry has also directed the High Commission in Kampala to provide all necessary consular assistance to support the family and ensure that justice is served.

"The Ministry wishes to buttress the fact that Nigeria values the strong bilateral relations with Uganda, therefore we are confident that the Ugandan authorities will handle this matter with utmost seriousness and sensitivity. We call for calm and patience as the investigation unfolds and urges the public to refrain from speculation that could hinder the process.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to monitor the situation closely, while we remain resolute and committed to protecting the welfare and rights of all Nigerian citizens abroad. 

"May the soul of Mr. Abubakar Lawal, rest in perfect peace." The statement concluded.

The press statement was signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Acting Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja