Awoniyi Shares Recovery Progress in Phone Call with Senator Saraki

Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has provided an encouraging update on his health following a serious stomach injury that led to surgery and a medically induced coma. In a telephone conversation with former Senate President Dr Bukola Saraki, Awoniyi revealed that although his condition has improved, he remains hospitalised.

The Nigerian forward sustained the injury after colliding with a goalpost during Forest’s 2-2 draw with Leicester City. He subsequently missed his team’s away win at West Ham United. In a show of support, his teammates lifted his jersey in celebration after scoring, and head coach Nuno Espírito Santo dedicated the victory to the recovering forward.

A video of Awoniyi’s phone chat with Saraki, which went viral on Thursday evening, captured a heartfelt exchange. “I’m much better, but I’m still at the hospital, and I’m not at home yet. I’ve been missing your call for some time. Thank you so much, sir,” said the visibly grateful player.

Saraki later shared his thoughts on Instagram, writing: “Just got off the phone with Taiwo Awoniyi. Great to hear that he’s in good spirits and recovering well. Wishing him a quick recovery and I hope to see him back on the pitch soon.”

Editorial

In moments like these, we’re reminded that footballers are not just athletes they are humans first, vulnerable to life’s unpredictabilities, even in the heat of their profession. Taiwo Awoniyi’s recent health scare is a sobering example.

What strikes us most about this story is not just the gravity of the injury, but the humanity in the response. From teammates holding up his jersey to a senator checking in with a call, this was more than an act of concern — it was a national embrace of one of our own.

We applaud Awoniyi’s courage. To come through surgery and a coma and still have the strength to speak with clarity and gratitude speaks volumes about the man behind the football boots. It also speaks volumes about the spirit that defines Nigerian athletes one of resilience, humility, and heart.

But we must also question the larger picture are we doing enough as a nation to safeguard our players’ health, both at home and abroad? Do we have the structures in place to support them when the floodlights dim?

As we celebrate Awoniyi’s recovery, we urge those in positions of power and influence clubs, federations, and government officials to make player welfare a priority, not just a press release.

Did You Know?

1. Taiwo Awoniyi has previously undergone multiple injuries since joining Nottingham Forest but remains a key figure in the squad.
2. The collision that caused his stomach injury occurred while he was attempting to score during a high-impact match against Leicester City.
3. Awoniyi is a product of the Imperial Soccer Academy in Nigeria and signed with Liverpool in 2015, though he never played a competitive match for the club.
4. Nottingham Forest players displayed his jersey in a goal celebration, a tradition typically reserved for serious injuries or tributes.
5. Dr Bukola Saraki has a longstanding interest in youth development and football, having supported Kwara Football Academy and numerous grassroots initiatives.