The Nigerian football community is mourning the loss of Gift Atulewa, a former youth international and prolific forward, who has passed away at the age of 38. Atulewa died following complications from high blood pressure, as confirmed by Azuka Chiemeka, spokesperson for the Delta State Football Association.

Atulewa had been struggling with blood pressure issues, which worsened just days before his death. Despite receiving treatment for malaria, his condition deteriorated, and he succumbed to the complications early on Tuesday morning. This tragic event comes just a month after he buried his wife, which may have contributed to his health struggles.

Recently, Atulewa had been involved in an ex-international football tournament in Delta State, where he scored a stunning free-kick just three weeks ago. He had also recently returned from Cote d’Ivoire, where he completed a coaching course that he will now sadly never have the chance to use.

Atulewa began his football career with Bayelsa United, later playing for Ocean Boys and Warri Wolves, where he made significant contributions. He was also a member of Nigeria’s U-20 team at the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship in the Netherlands. His death marks the third loss from that squad, following the passing of Olufemi Adebayo and Isaac Promise.