Lagos is currently playing host to high-profile dignitaries, sports stakeholders, foreign envoys, and business leaders who have stormed the city to pay their respects to the family of Reverend Samuel Ikpea, National Chairman of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club (NFSC), in honour of his late mother and in remembrance of his late father.

The funeral of Mrs. Alice Ikpea, who passed away on November 2, 2024, and the remembrance of Mr. Patrick Agbadamasi Ikpea, who died in January 1990, will be jointly celebrated on Saturday, July 26, 2025.

The combined ceremony will be held at Nebo Hall, Nigeria Army Ordnance Corps, beside Albati Barracks, Ojuelegba, Surulere, Lagos, with events expected to commence promptly at 12 noon.

Legacy of Service and Faith

Late Mrs. Alice Ikpea, born on June 7, 1940, hailed from Igata, Iddo of Okpella, Edo State. She passed away after a brief illness and was laid to rest 24 hours later, in accordance with her personal wish.

Her husband, Mr. Patrick Agbadamasi Ikpea, who was born on March 14, 1935, was a respected medical practitioner. He served meritoriously at Sapele and the General Hospital in Agbede, Edo State. Known for his deep commitment to humanitarian service and Christian values, he left an enduring legacy in his community.

The late Patrick was born into the illustrious Ikpea dynasty of Ehanlen, Ewu, Edo State, and was widely celebrated for his acts of philanthropy and devotion to faith.

A Son’s Tribute

Speaking ahead of the event, Reverend Samuel Ikpea, the organiser and one of the surviving children, expressed heartfelt gratitude and admiration for his parents.

“My parents lived a good life and served God according to the teachings of Jesus Christ,” he said.

“I have no regrets having both of them as my parents. If I come to this world again, I will want to come through them, if God permits,” the NFSC National Chairman stated.

Community and Global Recognition

The event has attracted significant attention not just because of the family’s legacy, but also due to Reverend Samuel Ikpea’s prominent role in Nigerian football and national development. His position as National Chairman of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club has earned him goodwill and admiration within the sports community and beyond.

Several sports stakeholders, including former athletes and administrative figures, are expected at the event, alongside international guests and prominent family members.

About the Ikpea Dynasty

The Ikpea family is widely known across Edo State and Nigeria for its contributions to public service, healthcare, and sports. The upcoming event is both a celebration of life and a moment of reflection for a lineage that continues to impact lives across generations.

In a bold first step toward youth empowerment, the Chairman-elect of Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA, Hon. Agbaje Lukman Abiodun, has thrown his weight behind a dynamic initiative aimed at nurturing local talent and promoting holistic development among school children.

Over the weekend, the bustling Ramosa Recreational Park & Event Place in Lagos transformed into a hub of excitement, competition, and creativity as students from schools across the local government area participated in the maiden Hon. Agbaje Inter-School Football, Chess, and Scrabble Championship. The championship, a brainchild of Zion Dan Sports Promotions, drew participation from both boys and girls eager to showcase their athletic and intellectual abilities.

Speaking on behalf of Hon. Agbaje, Titi Jeje (fondly called Omo’ba Titi Jeje) stressed that the championship is a glimpse into the kind of youth-focused governance Ayobo-Ipaja can expect.

“This administration is committed to raising a generation of intelligent, focused, and active youths. What we witnessed today is the beginning of a new chapter where our young people are given the platform to discover themselves through sports and games,” she said.

The event featured football matches that thrilled spectators, alongside intense chess and scrabble contests that challenged students’ mental prowess. More than just games, the championship aimed to instill values of discipline, resilience, and teamwork in the participating youths.

The initiative goes beyond recreational fun. It signals a strategic investment in community development and a deliberate attempt to redirect youthful energy toward positive ventures. By combining physical sport with cerebral challenges, the event paints a broader picture of what inclusive education and youth policy can look like under the incoming leadership.

According to the organisers, the idea is not only to find winners but to create platforms where every child finds expression. Zion Dan Sports Promotions noted that this multi-sport format helps encourage equal participation across gender and ability, making the program more inclusive.

The palpable joy, excitement, and competitive spirit from students, parents, teachers, and community leaders alike spoke volumes about the importance of such platforms in underserved communities.

“This is not a one-off. We intend to expand the championship in subsequent editions. We’re building traditions that shape lives and strengthen the community,” Titi Jeje added.

Hon. Agbaje’s gesture is being widely hailed as a refreshing direction for grassroots governance — especially at a time when youth engagement is critical to tackling unemployment, social unrest, and educational decline.

Observers believe the championship could set a model for other LCDAs across Lagos State and beyond. By placing value on both athletic talent and intellectual development, the administration appears to be cultivating a new kind of leadership narrative — one that listens, involves, and uplifts its people from the ground up.

Nigeria Football Supporters Club (NFSC) has paid a condolence visit to the family of late Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, reaffirming the iconic footballer’s lasting legacy in Nigerian sports history.

Rufai, fondly remembered as Dodomayana, passed away recently, leaving behind an indelible impact on football fans across the country. The club’s national executives, led by its chairman, visited the Rufai family at their Lagos residence on Thursday to express their sympathies.

During the emotional visit, the NFSC presented a condolence letter and pledged to continue celebrating Rufai’s achievements through community-based football initiatives and memorial activities.

‘A Unifying Figure in Nigerian Football’ – NFSC Chairman

Speaking at the visit, the NFSC National Chairman described Rufai as a national symbol of unity and excellence.

“Peter Rufai was more than just a goalkeeper—he was a unifying figure in Nigerian football and a symbol of excellence and patriotism. We are here to stand with his family and honour the memory of a man who gave his all for our country,” he said.

He added that Rufai’s contribution to Nigeria’s international football success earned him admiration not only from fans but also from aspiring young talents across Africa.

Career of a Legend

Peter Rufai earned over 60 caps for the Nigerian national team and was instrumental in the country’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory. He also represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cup tournaments, in 1994 and 1998.

His agility between the posts and his leadership on and off the pitch earned him respect among teammates and coaches alike. Rufai’s club career also saw him shine across European leagues, especially in Portugal and Spain.

The Nigeria Football Supporters Club signing the Condolences register.

‘We Are Grateful for the Support’ – Rufai Family

The Rufai family expressed deep appreciation to the NFSC for their kind gesture and support during their time of grief.

“We are grateful for this honour and the overwhelming love shown by Nigerians. The support we’ve received has helped us remain strong in these trying times,” a family representative said.

Continuing the Legacy

The NFSC reiterated its commitment to preserving Rufai’s memory through football education, youth empowerment, and memorial tournaments that will serve as platforms for future stars to learn from his example.

Peter Rufai’s legacy continues to resonate in Nigerian football, serving as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring goalkeepers and football lovers across generations.