Young Nigerian Father Dies Tragically Playing Football in Ireland

Tributes have been pouring in for 30-year-old Chinenyenwa “Lotanna” Nwabufoh, a devoted Nigerian father and the only son of his parents, who tragically passed away after collapsing suddenly during a football match in Limerick, Ireland, on Thursday, September 18.

Lotanna, fondly known as Chiboy to his friends, was playing a sport he deeply loved when tragedy struck. According to his close friend Solomon Anyafulu, “That Thursday evening, while playing football — a game he truly cherished — Lotanna suddenly collapsed on the pitch and passed away instantly. His sudden departure has left his family, friends, and local community in profound shock and grief.”

The young father had moved from Nigeria to Ireland to pursue his studies and build a better future. It was during this journey that he met Roisin, his loving fiancée. Together, they had a son named LJ and were eagerly expecting their second child just weeks before his sudden death.

Solomon described Lotanna as “the rock” of his family—a devoted father, a loving fiancé, and a caring son to his parents back in Nigeria. “He had so many hopes and dreams: to marry Roisin next year, to raise their children together and to build a life filled with love and opportunities. His passing has left a devastating void in all who knew him.”

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In response to this heartbreaking loss, friends and supporters have launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “Help Bring Lotanna Home and Support His Young Family” to provide financial assistance to Roisin, their young son LJ, the unborn child, and Lotanna’s parents in Nigeria. Part of the funds will also facilitate the repatriation of Lotanna’s body to his homeland for a dignified burial.

The impact of his death resonated deeply within the local football community. On Sunday, September 21, matches across the North Tipperary and District League observed a minute’s silence in his honor, reflecting the deep respect and love felt by many for Lotanna.

His friends remember him as a warm, kind-hearted man whose passion for football and family illuminated the lives of those around him. Though his life was tragically cut short, his memory and legacy of love and dedication will live on in the hearts of his family and community.

As calls for support continue, the fundraiser stands as a testament to the collective spirit and empathy of the community rallying to support Lotanna’s grieving family in this time of unimaginable loss.