By Charles Maduka
Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has reportedly regained consciousness after being placed in an induced coma following surgery for a serious abdominal injury.
According to BBC Sport, Awoniyi underwent a two-part surgical procedure after sustaining a ruptured intestine during a recent match. The first operation was carried out on Monday, after which he was placed in a medically induced coma on Tuesday to aid recovery and allow for close monitoring.
The second stage of the surgery, involving the closure of the wound, was successfully completed on Wednesday. Reports indicate that the procedure went well and the player is now responsive.
The incident has sparked an outpouring of support across Nigeria, with former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, among those expressing concern.
“I read with deep concern the unfortunate incident involving our own Taiwo Awoniyi, a resilient son of the soil, who, while giving his best on the field for Nottingham Forest in the English Premier League, suffered a severe injury in the line of duty,” Obi said.
He praised Awoniyi’s courage and determination, describing his continued effort on the pitch despite internal injuries as a reflection of the Nigerian spirit—strong, unyielding, and committed.
Obi called on Nigerians to support the player and his family through prayers and solidarity. “Let us not take this lightly. We must appreciate and celebrate such young men who continue to lift our flag high, even at great personal risk. May he recover fully and return stronger,” he added.
In a social media update, Nigerian photojournalist Adepoju Tobi Samuel, popularly known as OgaNlaMedia, confirmed that Awoniyi was recovering well. “I just spoke with a family member of Taiwo Awoniyi. He’s recovering well. His wife is around him, and he’s responding to treatment. Hopefully, we should be able to speak with him soon,” he posted.
Awoniyi’s health scare has drawn attention from the football world and beyond, with fans and fellow professionals offering prayers and messages of encouragement as he continues his recovery.
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