Prince Eze Madumere Demands Life Insurance, Better Welfare for Nigerian Athletes After Deaths of Henry Nwosu, Ramson Madu

The deaths of two respected football figures, Henry Nwosu and Coach Ramson Madu, have reignited calls for Nigeria to urgently overhaul its welfare system for retired athletes.

Former Imo State Deputy Governor, Prince Eze Madumere, says the country can no longer continue to celebrate sports heroes during their active years only to abandon them after retirement. He urged both the federal and state governments to introduce comprehensive welfare packages and life insurance policies for sportsmen and women across Nigeria.

Madumere made the appeal during separate condolence visits to the families of late football legend Henry Onyemanze Nwosu and veteran coach Ramson Madu in Owerri, Imo State.

Speaking during the visits to Umukwoma Umuorie Naze and World Bank Road in Owerri, the PDP senatorial hopeful for Owerri Zone described the current condition of many retired athletes as painful and unacceptable, especially after years of sacrifice and national service.

“There should be a sustainable and institutionalised support structure for retired athletes in Nigeria,” Madumere said. “These men served the country with honour and brought joy to millions. They deserve access to proper healthcare, insurance and decent welfare after retirement.”

The former deputy governor stressed that the recent deaths of the two football icons should serve as a wake-up call for authorities to prioritise healthcare and social protection for both serving and retired athletes.

Madumere described late Henry Nwosu as one of Nigeria’s greatest football ambassadors whose legacy inspired generations of players and fans across the country.

“Henry Nwosu was not just a footballer; he was a symbol of patriotism, unity and excellence. His contribution to Nigerian football can never be forgotten,” he stated.

He also paid tribute to former Iwuanyanwu Nationale player and ex-Heartland FC coach Ramson Madu, describing him as a committed grassroots football developer who dedicated his life to mentoring young talents in Imo State.

“When I heard about Coach Ramson Madu’s death, I felt it was important to personally identify with the family. He dedicated his life to football development and touched many lives through the game,” Madumere added.

During the condolence visit to the Madu family, the former deputy governor met with the late coach’s widow, Chioma Madu, and encouraged the family to remain strong despite the painful loss.

As part of his support, Madumere donated cash assistance to both families to help with burial arrangements ahead of the funeral ceremonies scheduled for June 6 and June 24 respectively.

Community leaders, including the Chief Priest of Naze Autonomous Community, Hamilton Uzoma, and David Iheanacho, praised the gesture, describing it as compassionate and timely.

Henry Nwosu, a former Green Eagles midfielder and one of Nigeria’s most celebrated footballers, died on March 14, 2026, at the age of 62, while Coach Ramson Madu passed away in April after years of contribution to football development in Imo State and beyond.