World football is mourning the death of former Nigeria Super Eagles forward Michael Eneramo, who died after collapsing during a local friendly match in Kaduna at the weekend.
Eneramo reportedly fell on the pitch in Ungwan Yelwa after playing the first half of the game.
Early reports indicated a medical emergency shortly after play resumed.
Confirming the death, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) described the news as devastating.
Its general secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, said the federation was shocked by the loss.
“This is devastating. I am short of words at this moment. I can only pray that God will grant him eternal rest and grant his loved ones and the Nigeria football family the fortitude to bear the loss,” Sanusi said.
The National Sports Commission (NSC) also described the 40-year-old ex- international as a respected figure whose contribution to Nigerian football would not be forgotten.
Eneramo built a distinguished club career across Africa and Europe, earning particular acclaim in Tunisia and Turkey.
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He was best known for his time with Espérance Sportive de Tunis, where his strength and goal-scoring ability earned him the nickname “Al Dababa” (The Tank).
The Tunisian club led tributes, describing him as one of its legends and extending condolences to his family.
USM Alger also paid tribute, thanking him for his service to the club.
In Turkey, where he played for several top-flight sides including Sivasspor, Beşiktaş, Istanbul Başakşehir and Karabükspor, tributes poured in from clubs and supporters.
Sivasspor said Eneramo would always be remembered for his commitment on the pitch, while Beşiktaş and Galatasaray also issued messages of condolence.
At international level, Eneramo earned 10 caps for Nigeria after opting to represent the Super Eagles despite earlier interest from Tunisia.
He made his debut against Jamaica in London in February 2009 and scored his first international goal later that year against the Republic of Ireland.
The late striker featured in World Cup qualifiers against Kenya and Tunisia, scoring a notable goal in a 2–2 draw in Abuja.
Eneramo also holds a place in African club football history as the only Nigerian to score four goals in a single Algerian league match, achieving the feat in 2005.
Tributes continue to arrive from across Nigeria, Tunisia and Turkey, with clubs, officials and fans remembering Eneramo as a powerful striker, a respected professional and a popular teammate.