Nottingham Forest and Super Eagles forward Taiwo Awoniyi is currently recovering after undergoing emergency surgery for a ruptured intestine, an injury sustained during Forest’s 2–2 Premier League clash against Leicester City on Sunday.
The Nigerian international was initially able to continue playing after colliding with a goalpost, but was later rushed to the hospital when symptoms worsened. Doctors diagnosed a severe abdominal injury and immediately performed surgery on Monday.
Following the initial operation, Awoniyi was placed in an induced coma on Tuesday as a precaution. A second procedure, which involved wound closure, was completed on Wednesday. He was successfully brought out of the coma that evening and is now said to be in stable condition.
News of the striker’s ordeal has sparked an outpouring of support from across the football world. Players, fans, and public figures have taken to social media to offer prayers and words of encouragement.
Ahmed Musa, Victor Osimhen, Rasheedat Ajibade, and Union Berlin—Awoniyi’s former club—were among the first to react publicly, praising his bravery and wishing him a swift recovery.
Former Nigerian presidential candidate Peter Obi also released a moving statement in support of the striker:
“I read with deep concern the unfortunate incident involving our own Taiwo Awoniyi, a resilient son of the soil… It is both painful and telling that, even after colliding with the goalpost and sustaining what has now been revealed as a ruptured intestine, he pressed on—a testament to the Nigerian spirit: strong, unyielding, and ever-committed.
“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.”
Obi further called on authorities and Nigerians to support Awoniyi and ensure that such sacrifices are met with care, recognition, and encouragement.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who also chairs the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, praised Awoniyi as a symbol of humility and generosity:
“Taiwo is more than just a footballer — he is a proud son of Kwara who continues to give back generously to the community that raised him. His unwavering connection to home is inspiring, and we look forward to seeing him return to the pitch stronger than ever.”
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