The Nigerian football community is mourning the loss of a legend, as former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Fregene has passed away. The sad news was confirmed on Sunday, October 13, 2024, following a long battle with illness. Fregene, who was on life support during the final week of his life, breathed his last surrounded by two of his children and his wife, Tina, according to his close friend and former teammate, Segun Odegbami.
In an emotional tribute, Odegbami, who played alongside Fregene during their time in Nigeria’s national football team, announced his passing:
“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 wrote on Sunday.
Fregene, affectionately known by his nickname “Apo,” was regarded as one of the most talented goalkeepers Nigeria has ever produced. He gained widespread recognition for his incredible agility, sharp reflexes, and unwavering resilience between the goalposts, qualities that made him an indispensable asset to the Green Eagles, now known as the Super Eagles.
Peter Fregene’s football career spanned two decades, with his peak years in the 1960s and 1970s. He proudly represented Nigeria on several major stages, including the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico. During that tournament, he stood out with his heroic performances, cementing his reputation as one of the finest goalkeepers of his era.
Throughout his career, Fregene was celebrated for his ability to make extraordinary saves under pressure, often leading Nigeria’s defense with remarkable composure. He was admired not only for his athleticism but also for his dedication to the sport, inspiring younger generations of Nigerian footballers.
Though retired for many years, his legacy remained deeply embedded in Nigerian football. Even after hanging up his gloves, Fregene continued to be an influential figure, sharing his experiences with younger players and leaving an indelible mark on the game he loved.
The news of his passing has deeply affected football enthusiasts and former teammates, who remember him not just for his achievements on the field, but also for the humility and kindness he exhibited off the pitch. Fregene’s death marks the end of an era, but his contributions to Nigerian football will continue to be remembered and celebrated.
His former teammate Segun Odegbami, in his tribute, summed up the feelings of many who admired and respected Fregene: “Peter was more than just a goalkeeper; he was a symbol of perseverance and passion. His life, both as an athlete and as a person, will continue to inspire us all.”
Peter Fregene’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many Nigerians, especially those who grew up watching him excel between the goalposts. As the football world mourns his loss, his family, friends, and fans take solace in knowing that his spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched. May his soul rest in peace.
