KADUNA, NIGERIA — By Prime Brief Media
Former Super Eagles striker Michael Eneramo has died at the age of 40 after collapsing during a training session in Kaduna on Friday, April 24, 2026. The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed the tragic news in a brief statement, expressing profound shock and extending condolences to the bereaved family.
According to preliminary accounts gathered by Prime Brief Media, Eneramo was participating in a routine training exercise when he suddenly collapsed on the pitch. Emergency responders were summoned immediately, but efforts to revive him proved unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. The exact cause of death remains unconfirmed, with medical authorities expected to conduct further examinations.
Eneramo's passing has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian football fraternity. The Kaduna-born striker earned 10 caps for the Super Eagles between 2009 and 2010, scoring three goals for the national team. Though his international career was relatively brief, his club career across Africa and Europe cemented his reputation as a powerful and technically gifted centre-forward.
He began his professional journey with Lobi Stars of Makurdi, where his physical presence and clinical finishing caught the attention of scouts across the continent. His breakout performances earned him a move to Espérance Sportive de Tunis, one of Africa's most decorated clubs. At Espérance, Eneramo flourished, helping the club secure domestic league titles and making significant contributions in CAF Champions League campaigns.
His exploits in Tunisia opened the door to European football, and Eneramo embarked on a successful stint in Turkey. He represented Sivasspor, where he became a fan favourite for his work rate and aerial ability, before going on to play for Beşiktaş, Karabükspor, and Istanbul Başakşehir. Across his Turkish Süper Lig career, he built a reputation as a dependable goal scorer who could hold up play and bring teammates into attacking movements.
Following his retirement from professional football, Eneramo remained connected to the game, occasionally featuring in veteran exhibition matches and mentoring young players in Kaduna. Sources close to the former striker told Prime Brief Media that he had been actively involved in grassroots football development initiatives in northern Nigeria in recent years.
"Michael was a gentle giant," a former teammate who played alongside him at Espérance told Prime Brief Media, requesting anonymity. "On the pitch, he was a warrior. Off it, he was one of the kindest souls you could meet. This is heartbreaking."
The Super Eagles' official social media channels posted a tribute shortly after the news broke: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of former Super Eagles striker Michael Eneramo. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and all who knew him. May his soul rest in peace."
Tributes are also expected from his former Turkish clubs, where he remains fondly remembered by supporters.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the Eneramo family. The Nigeria Football Federation has indicated that it will liaise with the family to offer support during this difficult period.
Prime Brief Media extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, former teammates, and fans of Michael Eneramo. May his soul rest in peace.
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