The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Emir of Gusau, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, who passed away in the early hours of Friday at a private hospital in Abuja.

In separate condolence letters signed by the NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, the federation extended its sympathies to the Governor of Zamfara State,Dauda Lawal Dare, its President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, and the entire people of Zamfara State.

The NFF described the late Emir as “a bastion of preservation of the reassuring culture and enviable traditional values of the people of Zamfara State,” noting that he worked tirelessly for peace, development, and unity in the state and beyond.

“Certainly, we loved him. But Almighty Allah loves him much more,” the statement read. “We must take solace in the fact that the late Emir Ibrahim Bello left his very bold footprints in the sands of time, as a much-loved leader of his people and a dignified custodian of culture and tradition.”

The federation also acknowledged the personal loss suffered by its President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, who is a traditional titleholder in the Gusau Emirate.

“As a traditional titleholder of the Gusau Emirate Council, we understand and appreciate that this is a solemn moment for you, even as you continue to discharge your responsibilities as the leader of Nigerian football and of West African Zone B Football,” the NFF added.

Dr. Ibrahim Bello is remembered as a revered monarch who played a pivotal role in fostering unity and cultural preservation in Zamfara State.

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Former Super Eagles captain and coach, Sunday Oliseh, is grieving the loss of his brother, Uche Levi Oliseh, who passed away on Thursday following a brief illness caused by malaria fever.

In an emotional social media post, Oliseh expressed profound sorrow, describing the pain as unlike anything he has ever experienced.

“Sadly, I lost my brother, Uche Levi Oliseh, on Thursday after a brief illness with malaria fever. It hurts so bad, like I have never felt before,” the former midfielder wrote on his X platform.

Oliseh, a key figure in Nigeria’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations triumph and the 1996 Olympic gold medal-winning team, went on to reflect on the deep bond he shared with Uche, lamenting the many moments they would no longer share.

“I have over a million things that I would wanna talk, laugh and do with Uche, but sadly I cannot anymore,” he added. “Damn, death is a real bitch.”

The Oliseh family is well known in Nigerian football circles, with several members involved in the sport. Uche Levi, though less prominent in the public eye, was considered an important part of the family’s strong kinship.

Tributes have started pouring in from fans, friends, and members of the football community, many of whom expressed their condolences and offered support to the Oliseh family during this difficult time.

The loss is a deeply personal one for Sunday Oliseh, who has not only contributed immensely to Nigerian football as a player and coach but remains a respected voice in the sport.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.

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By KUNLE SOLAJA

Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has expressed deep sorrow over the death of legendary Moroccan footballer Ahmed Faras. He sent a heartfelt message of condolence to the family of the late national hero. Ahmed Faras passed away at the age of 78.

Faras is a revered figure in Moroccan football history. He captained the national team to its only Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph in 1976. He also remains the country’s all-time leading scorer.

His death marks the end of an era for Moroccan football, with tributes pouring in from across the nation and beyond.

In a message conveyed to Faras’s family, loved ones, and the wider Moroccan sports community, King Mohammed VI paid glowing tribute to the former international, describing him as a “legendary figure of Moroccan football” and a source of national pride.

“With great emotion and deep sorrow, I learned of the passing of the former international footballer Ahmed Faras,” the King wrote.

“In this painful moment, I extend my heartfelt condolences and sincere compassion to all members of his family, his friends, his admirers, and the entire national sporting community, especially Chabab Mohammedia.”

King Mohammed VI, who was a 13-year-old prince at the time of Morocco’s AFCON triumph in 1976, fondly recalled the historic moment led by Faras.

A symbolic reminder of that victory is immortalized at the entrance of the Mohammed VI Football Complex in Rabat, where a large, framed photograph captures the 1976 national team dressed in maroon suits during a reception. Standing among them in a blue suit and striped tie is the young prince, now Morocco’s monarch.

This photograph adorns the reception area of the sumptuous Mohammmed VI Football Complex

The King praised Faras for his outstanding football career, highlighting his distinction as the first Moroccan to win the African Ballon d’Or in 1975 and his vital contributions to elevating Moroccan football on the continental and global stages during the 1960s and 1970s.

“Thanks to his exceptional talent, Ahmed Faras helped elevate Moroccan football with brilliance and dignity. His commitment, noble character, and patriotism made him a role model for generations of athletes,” the King added.

Faras, who spent his entire club career with Chabab Mohammedia, is remembered not only for his on-field brilliance but also for his humility and dedication to the national cause. He remains an enduring symbol of Morocco’s golden era in football.

King Mohammed VI concluded his tribute by acknowledging the profound loss felt across the nation, while honouring Faras’ enduring legacy and expressing solidarity with the bereaved family during this time of mourning.

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