Football Legend’s Burial Highlights Nigeria’s Poor Treatment of National Heroes

Former Nigeria international footballer Taribo West has criticised the government for neglecting national sports heroes after his former teammate Peter Rufai was buried without proper state support. West said he would never allow his son to play for Nigeria because the country abandons its heroes when they die.

Rufai, a former Super Eagles goalkeeper, was reportedly laid to rest under circumstances that forced his family to seek help from friends and informal networks. West’s anger reflects a wider pattern of neglect affecting other football legends including Rashidi Yekini, Stephen Keshi, Thompson Oliha, and Yisa Sofoluwe.

Lagos State government reportedly donated N15 million towards Rufai’s burial, but this only came after public criticism. The family still had to appeal for additional support despite the official contribution.

The treatment of retired sports stars reflects deeper problems with how Nigeria treats people who served the country with distinction. Many national heroes from different fields, including science, arts, and civil service, have faced similar abandonment in their final years.

Professor Dora Akunyili, who fought against counterfeit drugs and helped improve Nigeria’s global image, received tributes when she died but no lasting institutional recognition. Similarly, literary giant Chinua Achebe, whose works shaped global understanding of African identity, was buried without the ceremony his impact deserved.

The pattern extends to sports heroes as well. Rashidi Yekini, Nigeria’s all-time top scorer, died in isolation and mental distress. Stephen Keshi, who won the Africa Cup of Nations both as player and coach, received no structured support in his final years.

Critics say Nigeria’s institutions were designed during colonial times to control rather than care for people. These same structures continue to operate today, celebrating heroes during their peak years but abandoning them when they face illness, retirement, or death.

The Nigerian Football Federation has been particularly criticised for its relationship with players. It celebrates them during victories but disappears when they need support later in life.

Experts suggest Nigeria needs a National Heroes Trust funded by both government and private sector to support the welfare of retired athletes, artists, scientists, soldiers, and civic leaders. This would ensure that service to the country is met with lasting respect rather than eventual abandonment.

A structured pension system and end-of-life support for national heroes would signal that Nigeria values service beyond the immediate benefits it provides. Without such changes, the country risks losing the loyalty and inspiration that drives people to serve.

West’s threat to prevent his son from representing Nigeria reflects the frustration many feel about how the country treats those who sacrifice for national glory. His statement serves as a warning that Nigeria must change how it cares for its heroes or risk losing future generations of dedicated servants.

The case highlights the need for systematic changes rather than one-time donations that come only after public outcry. True respect for national heroes requires consistent institutional support throughout their lives and dignified treatment at their deaths.