Former Nigeria international Michael Eneramo has died after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest during a friendly match in Kaduna on Friday, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed.

The 40-year-old collapsed five minutes into the second half. His death has sent shockwaves through Nigerian football and beyond.

NFF general secretary Dr Mohammed Sanusi described the loss as "devastating," adding:

"I can only pray that God will grant him eternal rest and also grant his loved ones and the Nigeria football family the fortitude to bear the loss."

A career built on strength and determination

Eneramo earned 10 caps for the Super Eagles after making his international debut against Jamaica in 2009. He also represented his country at a pivotal moment in their 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, scoring in a 2-2 draw at home against Tunisia — a result that proved crucial in Nigeria reaching the finals in South Africa, though Eneramo himself was not selected for the tournament squad.

His club career took him across several continents, with spells in Tunisia, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. It was at Esperance in Tunisia where he made his greatest impression, earning the nickname Al Dababa — The Tank — from supporters who admired his physical presence and attacking ability.

The four-time African champions paid tribute on X, describing Eneramo as "a symbol of strength, determination and resolve" who "created unforgettable moments."

Notably, Eneramo reportedly turned down approaches from Tunisia to represent the Carthage Eagles internationally, choosing instead to wait for a call-up with the Super Eagles.

A troubling pattern across African football

Eneramo's death adds his name to a sorrowful list of African footballers who have passed away in similar circumstances during matches. Cameroon's Marc-Vivien Foe, Ivorian Cheick Tiote, and Ghana's Raphael Dwamena are among the most prominent players to have died on the pitch from suspected heart-related issues.

The issue carries significant medical weight. A 2009 research study backed by FIFA concluded that black African athletes appear to face a heightened risk of adverse cardiac events during sporting activity. Former Ivory Coast and Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has since called for compulsory medical screenings for all professional players in his homeland.

Eneramo's passing is a reminder of the urgent need for greater cardiac screening and medical infrastructure in African football, and the entire continent mourns a player who gave everything on the pitch throughout his career.