The Nigerian football community has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) assistant coach, Akin Olowokere, who collapsed during a training session on Monday morning.
The tragic incident occurred at the Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu Ode, where the Oluyole Warriors were preparing for their Matchday 2 fixture in the 2025 ValueJet Cup. Eyewitnesses say Olowokere, a former Sunshine Stars player and coach, slumped unexpectedly while on the pitch. Medical staff rushed to attend to him before he was taken to a hospital, the location of which remains undisclosed.
Olowokere had only recently joined the Shooting Stars technical crew after the NPFL side parted ways with the Gbenga Ogunbote-led coaching team. His appointment was seen as a fresh start for the club as they looked to strengthen their performance this season.
News of his passing has sparked grief among fans, colleagues, and the wider Nigerian football community. Tributes have begun pouring in on social media, with many remembering him as a dedicated professional and a passionate contributor to the game.
This unexpected loss comes just as Shooting Stars were building momentum ahead of their next match, casting a somber mood over the team’s preparations.