Dutch football clubs Ajax, VVV Venlo, and Roda JC Kerkrade are spearheading a crowdfunding effort to raise at least €170,000 (approximately N272 million) for their former player and ex-Nigerian international, Tijani Babangida, who is undergoing medical treatment in the Netherlands following a tragic accident earlier this year.
Babangida, a 1996 Olympic gold medallist, was involved in a devastating car crash in May along the Kaduna-Zaria Road in Nigeria. The accident claimed the lives of his one-year-old son, Fadil, and his younger brother, Ibrahim, while leaving Babangida, his wife, and their maid with severe injuries.
Treatment and Rehabilitation
After initial care at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital and another facility in Abuja, Babangida and his wife were flown to the Netherlands for further treatment, thanks to the support of his former teammates.
Babangida’s wife recently underwent a significant facial surgery, with at least three more procedures anticipated, while Babangida is undergoing rehabilitation following knee surgery. The financial burden of the treatments has become overwhelming, with the total cost estimated at €170,000.
“There are financial challenges. The total picture to cover the treatment and all other costs is at least €170,000, a large sum that Baba can’t afford. Due to wrong investments and failed projects in Nigeria, he has lost all his money,” a publication revealed.
Ajax, VVV Venlo, and Roda JC have united to raise funds through crowdfunding, an effort Babangida deeply appreciates.
“Fortunately, Ajax, VVV, and Roda have all offered to help me,” Babangida said.
“They have joined forces so that not only a few people but everyone can help. This is to pay my wife’s medical expenses. I think that’s very beautiful, I don’t know how to thank them.”
The former winger also acknowledged the ongoing support from his teammates.
“These guys did everything for me. They took me everywhere, not just to the hospital but also to the rehabilitation centre Adelante. My wife’s arm is paralyzed, and her rehabilitation will take months,” he added.
Babangida spent seven years at Ajax, winning the Eredivisie title in 1998 and two Dutch Cup trophies while scoring 20 goals in 77 appearances. Before joining Ajax, he played at Roda JC from 1991 to 1996 and was loaned to VVV Venlo from 1991 to 1993.
The crowdfunding effort underscores the enduring bond between Babangida and his former clubs, who continue to support the Nigerian star in his time of need.