The Supervising Minister of Sports, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi is saddened by the shocking and untimely death of Nigeria’s football maestro, Rashidi Yekini, even as The Nigeria Football Federation has described the death a great loss.

Mallam Abdullahi noted that Yekini was one of the greatest footballers in Nigeria’s history, recalling his exploits at the Nations Cup in Tunisia ‘94 and his goal at the US 94 World Cup.

‘He was a great Nigerian and great asset’, the minister said.  ‘Although he is dead, I am sure his memory will live forever. There’s no doubt that when the story of Nigerian football is written, his name will feature prominently.”

Mallam Abdullahi commiserates with his family and prays that God will give them the fortitude to bear the loss.

Meanwhile, The Nigeria Football Federation on Saturday morning expressed sadness and sorrow at the death of Nigeria’s record goalscorer, RashidiYekini.

Yekini, who scored 37 goals in 58 appearances for the Senior National Team, Super Eagles, between 1983 and 1998, died after a brief illness in Oshogbo, Osun State on Friday.

“What did you say? That Rashidi Yekini died? How did he die? Oh, this is very, very sad.”  Maigari said while reacting to his death.