Veteran coach Akpokona bedridden, seeks urgent medical assistance
Acritical appeal has been launched for immediate medical assistance for veteran Nigerian football coach and former international, Lawrence Akpokona, who has been hospitalized with a severe spinal cord injury. Coach
Acritical appeal has been launched for immediate medical assistance for veteran Nigerian football coach and former international, Lawrence Akpokona, who has been hospitalized with a severe spinal cord injury.
Coach Akpokona has been hospitalized since October 13, 2025, and has already undergone three major surgeries. His condition remains critical, requiring urgent medical intervention and financial support.
Prince Harrison Jalla, Chairman of Advocacy for Nigeria Football Reform Concepts, issued a “clarion call” on Friday, highlighting Akpokona’s dire situation. The former Bendel Insurance player and respected coach is currently bedridden at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) and has already undergone three major surgeries in the past six months.
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The appeal is specifically directed at the Edo State Government, Delta State Government, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), and the National Sports Commission, urging them to intervene and provide the necessary support for Coach Akpokona’s recovery. His prolonged hospitalization and multiple surgeries underscore the severity of his condition and the urgent need for comprehensive medical and financial aid.
During his playing days, Akpokona featured for Bendel Insurance and represented Nigeria at the international level. He later transitioned into coaching, where he impacted many young players across various clubs.
“Coach Lawrence Akpokona has served Nigerian football with distinction. This is the time for the football family and the government to rally around him in his moment of need,” Jalla stated.
