Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali buries parents in Rivers State

Summary 

• Stanley Nwabali laid his parents, Chief Godspower Nwabali and Mrs. Grace Nwabali, to rest in Okwuzi, Egbema, Rivers State, on June 6 and 7, 2025
• The Nigeria Football Federation provided N20 million to support burial expenses, with football legend Kanu Nwankwo attending in solidarity
• Nwabali, despite his grief, returned to play for Chippa United, though his coach later regretted the decision

Okwuzi, Egbema, Rivers State – Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has endured a heart-wrenching period, laying both of his parents to rest in his hometown of Okwuzi, Egbema, Rivers State, on June 6 and 7, 2025.

His father, Chief Godspower Nwabali, aged 72, passed away in November 2024, followed by his mother, Mrs. Grace Nwabali, aged 63, on January 1, 2025.

The back-to-back losses left the 28-year-old footballer navigating profound grief while maintaining his professional commitments.
The burial ceremonies were marked by solemnity and community support.

On June 5, a Service of Songs honored both parents. The following day, Mrs. Grace Nwabali’s remains were moved from Gbegbe Hospital Mortuary to her father’s compound and then to her husband’s residence for lying in state.

On June 7, Chief Godspower Nwabali’s body was received by the Okwuzi Council of Chiefs before burial, adhering to local traditions.

Nwabali expressed his sorrow on Instagram, calling the loss “a different kind of pain” and thanking supporters, including friends, family, and the Nigerian football community.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) stepped in with N20 million to ease the financial burden of the burials, and football icon Kanu Nwankwo attended to show solidarity. Fans and teammates flooded social media with condolences, reflecting Nwabali’s impact both on and off the pitch.

Despite his grief, Nwabali returned to his club, Chippa United, in South Africa. His coach later admitted it was a mistake to field him so soon, acknowledging the emotional toll on the goalkeeper.