Peter Fregene, a former goalkeeper for the Nigerian national team, the Green Eagles, has passed away at the age of 77 after a long illness. He was a key figure in Nigerian football throughout the 1960s and 70s, representing Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico and earning the nickname ‘Apo’ for his incredible reflexes and agility between the posts.
Fregene's death was confirmed by former Green Eagles captain and 1980 Africa Cup of Nations winner Segun Odegbami, who shared the news on his social media on Sunday. Odegbami described Fregene as a dedicated player, a beloved teammate and a true icon of Nigerian football.
Odegbami wrote, “A few minutes ago, Peter ‘Apo’ Fregene, OLY, former goalkeeper for Nigeria’s Green Eagles, who has been on life support for the past one week, passed on to meet his creator. He died quietly in the presence of two of his children and his devoted wife, Tina,”
Odegbami also thanked everyone who had supported Fregene in the quest to keep him alive.
He said, “On behalf of all generations of Nigerian footballers, Olympians, sports persons, his family, friends, fans, and a few incredible Nigerians that quietly rallied round and, with their support, prayers and the will of the creator of the Universe, kept him alive until this night, I say a big ‘thank you.”
Fregene’s passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian football, bringing back memories of a time when the Green Eagles were a force to be reckoned with on the international stage. His contributions to the team, his exceptional skills, and his unwavering dedication to the game will be remembered by fans and players alike.
Legacy and the Need for Support
Fregene's death has sparked conversation and concerns about the welfare of retired athletes in Nigeria. Odegbami highlighted the lack of a functional welfare scheme for retired athletes, lamenting that many sports heroes face neglect in their later years. He expressed disappointment in the government’s failure to establish a welfare scheme for retired athletes.
In a final heartfelt message, Odegbami said: “Good night, ‘Apo’. Rest, my friend, rest in peace, finally!”
Fregene’s legacy is not only about his achievements on the field, but also the inspiration he provided to aspiring footballers and the pride he instilled in Nigerian fans. His passing serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting our sports heroes not just during their playing days, but throughout their lives.
A Farewell to ‘Apo’
Peter Fregene, the ‘Flying Cat,’ may have left this world, but his name will continue to be etched in the annals of Nigerian football history. He will be remembered for his dedication, his talent, and the indelible mark he left on the game he loved. Rest in peace, ‘Apo.’
