The Senatorial flagbearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Imo East Senatorial district in the 2027 elections, Prince Eze Madumere, has condoled with the families of late ex-International and football legend, Henry Nwosu and former Coach of Heartland of Owerri, Ramson Mmadu.
The former Deputy Governor of Imo State, during his condolence visit to the family’s residences in Owerri, capital of Imo State, sympathised with the families and described the deceased as a committed sportsman who contributed immensely to football development in Imo State and Nigeria.
Madumere expressed sadness over the passing of the two football icons, describing them as men who dedicated their lives, talents, and strength to the service of the nation through sports.
According to him, late Henry Nwosu remains one of Nigeria’s finest football heroes whose contributions to Nigerian football history can never be forgotten, while Coach Ramson Mmadu distinguished himself both as a footballer and as a coach who worked tirelessly for the growth of the game before his death.
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He said, “Coach Ramson Mmadu was a good man and one of the football legends we had in Imo State and Nigeria. Even as a coach, he did so well before his death. His contributions to football development will always be.”
Madumere called on the Federal Government to urgently establish proper welfare and life insurance policies for retired athletes who have represented Nigeria with distinction.
According to him, it is painful and disheartening to see national heroes who once brought pride and glory to the country struggle financially or seek public assistance for medical treatment after retirement.
He noted that many former footballers dedicated their lives to promoting the image of Nigeria internationally and therefore deserve better care, support, and protection from the government even after their active years in sports.
Madumere stressed that introducing comprehensive life insurance and welfare packages for sports legends would not only support retired athletes in old age but would also encourage younger generations to pursue football and other sports with confidence, knowing that their sacrifices for the nation would never be forgotten.
He said, “It is heartbreaking to see some of our football legends who served this country tirelessly come on social media to solicit financial help for medical treatment and survival.
“Government must do better. These men gave their all for Nigeria and deserve dignity, care, and support.”
He further emphasised that a nation that fails to honour and protect its heroes risks discouraging future talents from dedicating themselves wholeheartedly to national service.
The Senatorial hopeful prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of late Henry Nwosu and Coach Ramson Mmadu and encouraged their families to remain strong during this difficult period, assuring them that the legacies and contributions of the deceased football icons would never be forgotten.
