Former Sporting Lagos Goalkeeper Agbor Ekoi Dies in Tragic Accident

…Nigerian Football Community Mourns the Sudden Loss of Agbor Ekoi

Lagos, Nigeria – The Nigerian football community is reeling from the shocking news of former Sporting Lagos goalkeeper Agbor Ekoi’s sudden death following a tragic car accident. Ekoi, widely respected for his skill and agility on the field, reportedly died instantly at the scene of the accident, which occurred on Friday.

Details of the incident are still emerging, but preliminary reports indicate that Ekoi’s vehicle was involved in a serious collision, with emergency responders pronouncing him dead on the spot. News of his death has cast a pall over Nigerian football, as fans, players, and colleagues remember the 31-year-old goalkeeper’s contributions both to Sporting Lagos and to the sport at large.

Ekoi had an impressive career at Sporting Lagos, where he was celebrated for his dedication, quick reflexes, and ability to pull off critical saves in high-stakes moments. His performances earned him a loyal fanbase, and he became a symbol of resilience and commitment in Nigerian football.

His sudden passing has left the Sporting Lagos community and fans devastated, with many taking to social media to express their grief and share fond memories of his time on the field.

The management of Sporting Lagos released an emotional statement mourning Ekoi’s passing. “Everyone at Sporting Lagos is devastated at the shocking news that our former goalkeeper, Agbor Ekoi, has passed away. Agbor was in goal for our first-ever game and brought laughter to the dressing room every day.

“In his memory, we’ve put together a thread of photos and videos from his time with us — a celebration of moments that made him so special to us. Rest in Peace, Agbor,” the club said in a statement on X on Friday.

Everyone at Sporting Lagos is devastated at the shocking news that our former goalkeeper Agbor Ekoi has passed away. Agbor was in goal for our first ever-game and brought laughter to the dressing room every day.

In his memory, we’ve put together a thread of photos and videos… pic.twitter.com/ZDG7OmlyoA

— Sporting Lagos (@SportingLagos) November 1, 2024

Adding, “Agbor was in goal in our first ever professional game as a football club — a part of our history. In a difficult first season, he was ever-present as we fought to stay up

“In our second season, he was an important piece in our promotion charge as we made it to the NPFL together, and Agbor was present and a champion as we lifted the Naija Super 8 trophy together last year.

“He was always by Christian’s side and they shared a strong bond as our Goalkeepers. Our thoughts are with all his family, friends and teammates.”

Tributes have poured in from across the football community. The Nigerian Football Federation shared its condolences, calling Ekoi “a shining example of skill and sportsmanship.”

Former teammates and colleagues remembered him as a dedicated professional with a warm, approachable personality, describing the impact he had both on and off the pitch.

In honour of Ekoi’s life and contributions to the sport, Sporting Lagos has announced plans for a memorial match. The game will allow fans and fellow athletes to pay tribute to Ekoi, with all proceeds going to support his family during this difficult time.

Agbor Ekoi’s death is a reminder of life’s fragility and the profound impact athletes have on their communities. His memory as a talented, hardworking goalkeeper and beloved figure in Nigerian football will endure in the hearts of those who watched him play and those who had the privilege to know him.