Nigerian football legend, Peter Fregene dies at 77

The Nigerian football legend, Peter Fregene has died on Sunday, October 23, 2024, after being on life support for about a week at one hospital at Sapele, Delta State.

The news of Fregene’s death, who was given the nickname ‘Apo’ and Flying Cat because of his agility was disclosed by his close friend, former Green Eagles player, Mr Segun Odegbami, in his heartfelt post on Facebook on Sunday.

He wrote, “A few minutes ago, Peter Fregene, former goalkeeper for Nigeria’s Green Eagles, passed on to meet his Creator.”

Fregene who had been on life support for about a week is said to have died, surrounded by his wife, Tina and his two children.

Mr Segun expressed his gratitude to those who supported the former goalkeeper throughout his illness.

Odegbami in his tribute honored Fregene’s legacy, writing, “To all who cared for Peter during his illness, I offer immense thanks from his family, friends, olympians, sports persons, and all generations of Nigerian footballers.

Reactions from Nigerian Football Federation and Fans

The football legend’s death has sparked a lot of reactions from his fans.

These are some of the attributes written by his fans, “we mourn the loss of a true Nigerian football legend,” “Apo’s passing leaves a void in Nigerian football,” we’ll celebrate his life and achievements,” “he inspired generations of Nigerian footballers, “his legacy will continue to inspire us,” and lots more

The Nigerian football community mourns the loss of Peter known as “Apo” , a legendary goalkeeper whose contributions inspired generations. He will be deeply missed by his family, including his wife and children.

Who is Peter Fregene?

Peter Fregene, also known as “Apo” or “The Flying Cat” was born on May 17,1947, in Lagos, Nigeria. He hails from Sapele, Delta State.

Peter grew up in a family of six children, developed his passion for football at an early age and played football in local tournaments and schools.

Education

He attended St. Finbarr’s College, Lagos between 1960 and1965, and studied Physical Education at the University of Lagos between 1966 and 1969.

Football Beginnings

Apo started playing football professionally in 1965 with Lagos-based club, Stationery Stores, before he joined Nigeria’s national team, Green Eagles, in 1968.

He was a Nigerian football goalkeeper who during his lifetime played club football for Lagos rivals ECN and Stationery Stores F.C. in 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. He won the Nigerian FA Cup with both ECN and Stationery Stores.

Fregene was the first choice goalkeeper for the Nigeria national football team from 1968 to 1971, before being recalled for the 1982 African Cup of Nations finals. He also represented Nigeria at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City.

Influence

Peter was inspired by Nigerian football legends, like Tesilimi Balogun and Daniel Amokachi and was mentored by coaches, like Manfred Hoener and Karl-Heinz Marotzke.

Awards

The football legend was awarded by the Nigerian Football Federation’s Merit Award in 2007 and was inducted into the Nigerian Football Hall of Fame in 2011.

Personal life

Fregene was married to Tina Fregene until his death, and they are blessed with two children Peter Fregene Jr. (son) and Nneoma Fregene (daughter).

Hobbies

The former Nigerian goalkeeper enjoyed listening to music, both traditional Nigerian and jazz music.

He loved reading history, sports, and self-improvement articles. He was also passionate about mentoring young footballers.

Personality

Peter is described as humble, disciplined, and dedicated, known for his warm smile and sense of humor. He was respected by peers and younger generations before and after his death.

Later Life

Apo after his retirement from football, focused on family and business ventures, involved in various charitable initiatives, promoting youth development and sports.

Health and Passing

After battling with illness for several years, he passed away on October 13, 2024, at age 77.

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