Prince Eze Madumere, a former Deputy Governor of Imo State and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Imo East senatorial seat, has urged the Nigerian government to put stronger welfare measures in place for retired athletes. His appeal came after separate condolence visits to the families of late football figure Henry Onyemanze Nwosu and veteran coach Ramson Madu in Owerri.
Key takeaways
- Madumere called for an official, long-term welfare framework for retired Nigerian sports professionals.
- He visited the families of Henry Onyemanze Nwosu and Ramson Madu in Owerri to offer condolences.
- He argued that former athletes need access to healthcare, insurance, and dignified support after retirement.
- Cash assistance was presented to both families to help cover burial-related expenses.
- Funeral rites were indicated for June 6 and June 24 for the two late sports figures.
Welfare push for retired athletes
The PDP candidate said the passing of two widely respected figures who dedicated their lives to Nigerian football should serve as a reminder that sports authorities must take better care of those who once served the nation. He specifically lamented what he described as the continued neglect many former players and coaches face after years of contribution to the game.
During stops in Umukwoma, located in Umuorie Naze, and World Bank Road in Owerri, Madumere highlighted the need for structured protection for retirees. He stressed that retired athletes should not have to struggle for basic support once their playing and coaching careers end.
“There should be a sustainable and institutionalised support structure for retired athletes in Nigeria,” Madumere said. “These men served the country with honour and brought joy to millions. They deserve access to proper healthcare, insurance and decent welfare after retirement.”
Tributes to Henry Nwosu and Ramson Madu
Madumere paid tribute to the late Henry Nwosu, describing him as one of the country’s most respected football ambassadors whose legacy reached far beyond his era. He said Nwosu’s impact reflected values of patriotism, togetherness, and excellence, insisting that his contributions to Nigerian football would remain remembered.
He also honoured Ramson Madu, an ex-Iwuanyanwu Nationale player and former Heartland FC coach, portraying him as a coach who worked passionately at grassroots level. Madumere said Madu influenced numerous young players in Imo State and that it was important to show solidarity with the family personally after learning of his death.
“When I heard about Coach Ramson Madu’s death, I felt it was important to personally identify with the family. He dedicated his life to football development and touched many lives through the game,” Madumere added.
On the occasion of the visit to the Madu family, he met with the coach’s widow, Chioma Madu, along with their children. Madumere urged them to remain firm and united as they grieve.
Support for burial arrangements and community reaction
Madumere provided cash support to both families to assist with burial arrangements ahead of funeral rites scheduled for June 6 and June 24, respectively.
His gesture was welcomed by community leaders, including the Chief Priest of Naze Autonomous Community, Hamilton Uzoma, and David Iheanacho, who described the support as timely and compassionate.
When the two football figures died
Henry Nwosu, a former Green Eagles midfielder and one of Nigeria’s most celebrated footballers, died on March 14, 2026, at the age of 62. Coach Ramson Madu, who spent years working in football development across Imo State, passed away in April.
