Besiktas, NFF and Nigerian sports family unite in sympathy for football icon’s loss.
Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has been plunged into mourning following the death of his father, Sunday Ndidi, who was involved in a fatal road accident in Delta State, Nigeria on Tuesday, January 27, 2026.
According to multiple reports, the accident occurred in Umunede, and the retired military officer was rushed to a hospital in Agbor, where he was later pronounced dead.
The news was confirmed officially by Ndidi’s club, Turkish side Besiktas, in a statement released via their verified social media channels. The club expressed sadness over the loss, offering heartfelt condolences to Ndidi, his family and loved ones, and praying for mercy on the soul of the late Sunday Ndidi.
Reactions from Nigerian Football Officials
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) issued a statement expressing shock and deep sorrow over the passing of the Super Eagles captain’s father. NFF General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi extended the federation’s prayers for comfort and strength to Ndidi and his family during this difficult time, noting that the midfielder had just returned from representing Nigeria with distinction at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Similarly, the National Sports Commission (NSC) conveyed its deepest sympathies to Ndidi. NSC Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade acknowledged the significant role the late Sunday Ndidi played in shaping his son’s character and career, reinforcing the nation’s support and prayers for the Ndidi family.
Wilfred Ndidi, who recently captained the Super Eagles to a third-place finish at AFCON 2025, has openly spoken in the past about his father’s influence on his career. During the tournament in Morocco, Ndidi scored his first international goal — a headed effort against Tunisia — which he dedicated to his father, who was known to be a passionate admirer of former Nigeria captain Kanu Nwankwo.
At the time, Ndidi explained that his celebratory homage to Kanu — a Nigerian football legend was inspired by his father’s love for the ex-Super Eagles star, showing the deep emotional bond between father and son both on and off the pitch.
News of the tragedy has elicited an outpouring of sympathy from fans, fellow players, and officials across the Nigerian sports community. Many have taken to social media to pray for comfort and condolences, highlighting the respect the Ndidi family has earned through years of dedication to the national game.