The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has extended a gesture of solidarity and support to Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali with a N20 million donation to aid the burial arrangements of his parents.

The federation’s technical director, Augustine Eguavoen, personally delivered the fund to Nwabali on behalf of the NFF, in what many have described as a compassionate act during the footballer’s time of grief.

Nwabali, who became a fan favourite following his heroics at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, is mourning both parents who died within short period.

His father, Godspower Abali (popularly known as Onyeogazrim 1 of Okwuzi), died in mid-November 2024 at the age of 67.

The news broke just hours before Nigeria’s AFCON qualifier against Rwanda, prompting Nwabali to withdraw from the squad to be with his family.

Barely two months later, tragedy struck again. On January 1, the 27-year-old announced the death of his mother, Grace Nwabali, aged 63.

He took to social media at the time, describing the start of the year as “the worst year of my life already.”

The burial ceremonies for both parents are being held jointly in their hometown of Okwuzi, Egbema in Rivers State.

A service of songs took place on Thursday, at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Okwuzi.

On Friday, Mrs. Nwabali’s body will be moved from Gbeye Hospital Mortuary in Omoku to her father’s compound, then to her husband’s residence for lying in state.

Saturday, June 7, will mark the final rites. Mr. Nwabali’s remains will be received by the Okwuzi council of chiefs, followed by interment and a reception at CPS Okwuzi Egbema.