Delta pledges support for ailing ex-footballer, Henry Nwosu

Delta State Government has pledged to give financial and moral support to ailing ex-Super Eagles midfielder, Henry Nwosu.

Commissioner for Health, Dr Mordi Ononye, gave the pledge on Sunday in Asaba when he led some government officials on a visit to Nwosu on his sick bed.

Nwosu was placed on admission at the Asaba Specialist Hospital, Asaba, for treatment of a heart-related illness.

He was the poster boy and youngest member of Nigeria’s victorious 1980 African Cup of Nations squad. The midfield maestro scored Nigeria’s only goal at the Moscow 1980 Olympics.

Ononye, accompanied by Mr Olisa Ifeajika, Chief Press Secretary to Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa, assured the footballer of the state government’s readiness to do everything humanly possible to assist him.

He said that as one of the legendary heroes of Nigeria’s football, his labour for the country would not be forgotten by the Delta government.

“Your exploits and the major role you played in this nation and for promoting football and sports generally in our country will never be forgotten.

“The governor would have loved to be here personally, but he is seriously involved in some national issues, especially the campaigns of the People’ Democratic Party (PDP), where he is the vice-presidential candidate.

“’He has asked us to come and see you to know how you are doing and to ensure that the medical personnel here are doing their utmost best.

“And from the report I have gotten from the Chief Medical Director, you are showing remarkable improvement and we are very happy about that.

“We want to assure you that we will continue to pray for you and also stand with you at this trying time and I believe that by the grace of God, you will come out of this successfully.

“Just as our national anthem says: `the labour of our hero’s past shall not be in vain.’ Some people may have forgotten your contributions to Nigeria, but Delta will never forget,’’ Ononye said.

Responding, Mrs Kate Kogolo, younger Sister to the footballer, said Nwosu was receiving adequate treatment and care at the hospital.

She thanked the state government and other well-meaning Nigerians for their care and support.