MOUAU Mourns Final Year Student Who Died During Football Training

MOUAU Mourns Final Year Student Who Died During Football Training

The entire Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) community is in mourning following the tragic death of Mr. Nwachukwu Omiko, a final-year student of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, who passed away on Tuesday, May 14, 2025.

According to a statement issued by the university’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Dr. Ubadire Agua, the heartbreaking incident occurred during a routine football training exercise. Eyewitness accounts indicate that Mr. Omiko suddenly slumped on the pitch. His teammates made immediate attempts to resuscitate him and alerted the University Health Services without delay.

He was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre using the university’s oxygen-equipped ambulance, but sadly, all efforts to save his life proved unsuccessful.

In a deeply emotional response, the Vice-Chancellor of MOUAU, Professor Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, expressed the profound grief of the university over the untimely passing of one of its own. He extended sincere condolences on behalf of the entire university community to Mr. Omiko’s family, friends, and colleagues in the College of Engineering and Engineering Technology.

“This is a painful and irreplaceable loss,” the Vice-Chancellor stated. “Mr. Omiko was not only a promising engineer but a valued member of our university family. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill.”

As part of its response, the university has urged students to prioritize their health and take advantage of the medical services available on campus. Students, especially those engaging in physical activities, have been advised to undergo health checks and refrain from strenuous exercise if they have any known health issues.

The mood across the MOUAU campus remains somber, as fellow students, lecturers, and staff members come to terms with the sudden loss.

The university community prays for the peaceful repose of Mr. Omiko’s soul and strength for his family during this period of deep sorrow.