Ex-Nigeria international Michael Eneramo collapsed and died during a friendly match in Kaduna on Friday, ending a career that spanned Africa’s fiercest leagues and earned him a legion of admirers from Tunis to Istanbul. He was 40.
Eneramo played the entire first half of a low‑key fixture at Ungwan Yelwa’s dusty pitch, a stone’s throw from his home. Five minutes into the second half, he went down without a challenge. Bystanders rushed to help. He was pronounced dead before reaching the hospital. Early reports suggest cardiac arrest.
From Kaduna’s dust to Tunisian silverware
Born in Kaduna on 26 November 1985, Eneramo began his professional journey at Lobi Stars. In 2004, he was scouted by Tunisian giants Espérance Sportive de Tunis, a move that would define him.
He scored 51 goals in 86 league games for the “Blood and Gold” and won four league titles. On loan at USM Alger (2004–2006), he added 13 goals and won the Algerian championship. Tunisian fans called him Al Dababa – The Tank.
Choosing Nigeria over adopted home
Eneramo briefly carried a Tunisian passport and was courted by the Carthage Eagles’ federation. He declined. He made his Super Eagles debut in February 2009, a goalless friendly against Jamaica in London. In his second appearance, he scored against Ireland in a 1‑1 draw.
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His most cherished goal came in Abuja on 6 September 2009, with a strike in a 2‑2 World Cup qualifier against Tunisia, a result that helped Nigeria reach the 2010 finals. He was not selected for that tournament. He finished with 10 caps and three goals.
Turkish trailblazer
In 2011, at his peak, Eneramo left Tunis to join Sivasspor. Over five clubs in Turkey, including Sivasspor, Beşiktaş, Karabükspor, İstanbul Başakşehir and Manisaspor. Later came Saudi Arabia, then a final spell in Cyprus. He retired in 2018 with 262 club appearances and 110 goals across all competitions.
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He also stayed home…
Unlike many Nigerian retirees who move abroad, Eneramo chose to live and work in his native Kaduna. He ran a small football academy and still laced his boots for local kickabouts, staying fit.
Eneramo leaves a wife and children. Several clubs and personalities paid tribute and sent condolences about his demise.
