Former Nigerian goalkeeper Peter Fregene Dies After Long Illness at 77
The Nigerian football community is mourning the loss of Peter Fregene, a former goalkeeper for the Green Eagles, who passed away at 77. His close friend and fellow ex-international Segun Odegbami shared the news in a heartfelt Facebook post on Sunday night.
Fregene, affectionately known as “Apo” or the “Flying Cat,” died peacefully, surrounded by his devoted wife, Tina, and two of his children, after a prolonged illness that had seen him on life support for the past week. Odegbami expressed gratitude to those who rallied to support Fregene during his health struggles.
“And the Man died. A few minutes ago, Peter ‘Apo’ Fregene, OLY, former goalkeeper for Nigeria, passed on to meet his Creator,” Odegbami wrote. “On behalf of all generations of Nigerian footballers, Olympians, sports persons, his family, friends, fans, and the incredible Nigerians who stood by him, I say a big ‘thank you.’ Good night, ‘Apo.’ Rest in peace, finally!”
Fregene was a pivotal figure in Nigerian football, serving as the first-choice goalkeeper for the national team from 1968 to 1971. He was also part of the squad that competed in the 1982 African Cup of Nations and represented Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City. His career spanned over two decades, during which he won the Nigerian FA Cup with both ECN and Stationery Stores.
Stationery Stores Football Club, where Fregene made an impact, also expressed their condolences. Chairman Adetilewa Adebajo released a statement honoring Fregene’s contributions: “Peter was an integral part of the legendary Stationery Stores team of the sixties and seventies that provided numerous players to the National Green Eagles Football team.”
Adebajo reflected on Fregene’s achievements, including being part of the team that famously held Brazil and Pele to a 3-3 draw in the 1968 Olympics. “His exploits are woven into Nigeria’s football folklore, and his agility earned him the nickname the Flying Cat,” he noted.
In closing, Adebajo extended condolences to Fregene’s family, stating, “We pray the Almighty will give us all the strength to overcome this sad loss. We take solace in the legacy and joy he brought to the beautiful game.”
