Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is preparing to lay both his parents to rest in a joint funeral scheduled for June 6 and 7, 2025, in Okwuzi, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State. The 28-year-old Chippa United shot-stopper announced the burial plans on Friday, May 30, marking a somber chapter in what he has described as the most difficult period of his life.
Nwabali’s father, Chief Godspower Onyekam Abali, also known as Onyeogazrim I of Okwuzi, passed away in mid-November 2024 at the age of 67. The loss came just hours before Nigeria’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualification match against Rwanda, prompting Nwabali to withdraw from the squad to mourn his father.
Tragedy struck again on January 1, 2025, when Nwabali’s mother, Grace Nwabali, died at the age of 63. The goalkeeper expressed his grief on social media, writing, “Rip mom, worst year of my life already,” and previously lamented, “A very very crazy world indeed.”
The funeral proceedings will commence with a service of songs on Thursday, June 5, at the Redeemed Christian Church of God in the late chief’s residence at Osafu Lane, Okwuzi Egbema. On Friday, June 6, Mrs. Grace Nwabali’s body will be taken from Gbeye Hospital Mortuary, Omoku, to her father’s compound and then to her husband’s residence for lying in state. The funeral will continue on Saturday, June 7, with Mr. Nwabali’s body being received by the Okwuzi council of chiefs, followed by interment and a reception at CPS Okwuzi Egbema.
Nwabali’s rise to national prominence came during the 2023 AFCON, where his performances were instrumental in Nigeria’s journey to the final. His resilience on the field has been mirrored by his strength off it, as he navigates these personal tragedies.
The football community has rallied around Nwabali, offering condolences and support. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) extended their sympathies, stating, “Our heartfelt condolences to Stanley Nwabali on the loss of his mother. Stay strong, Stanley. Sending you strength and support during this difficult time. You are not alone; we are all with you.”
As Nwabali prepares to bid farewell to his parents, he carries the weight of their memories and the support of a nation that stands with him in solidarity.
