Ministry of Youth and Sports Development under the leadership of the minister, Sunday Dare, has donated the sum of N500,000 to coach Kadiri Ikhana to support his medical treatment.
Ikhana arrived in Abuja some months ago for medical treatment which included surgery and had cried out for help.
Although the ministry did not reveal the actual amount donated in its press release, a source in the ministry confirmed to Qed.ng that N500,000 was given to Ikhana.
Speaking on the gesture, the minister said, “Coach Kadiri Ikhana is an ex-international of note, he served the country, he was part of the historic team in 1980 and a one-time Super Falcons coach. He brought smiles to the faces of football-loving Nigerians when he became the first Nigerian coach to win the CAF Champions League trophy.
“I heard his plea for assistance and I sent one of my aides to him while he was in the hospital to ascertain the level of assistance required by the coach. What better way to show support than to foot part of his medical bills? That’s what we have done.
“Like I have always maintained, the welfare of athletes, ex-internationals and that of those who still represent us remains our priority and we will continue to be on the lookout to assist in any way we can. We wish Coach Kadiri Ikhana a quick recovery.”
The renowned soccer coach was part of the Nigerian team to the 1980 Nations Cup who were the first set of players (Green Eagles) to win Nations Cup for the country in 1980.
He also won the CAF Champions League with Enyimba Football Club of Aba in 2003.
