The Nigerian sports community was thrown into mourning on Sunday as news broke of the sudden death of Steve Cole, a renowned sports administrator and former Special Adviser to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa on sports.
Cole, who was also the immediate past Vice Chairman of the Delta State Football Association, died in the early hours of Sunday in Benin City after a brief illness.
The President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Chief Tonobok Okowa, described Cole’s death as “a rude shock” and praised him as a “true, trusted brother, friend, and consummate sports administrator.”
“Steve was a complete and passionate sports personality who gave his all in any capacity he served,” Okowa said. “We will surely miss him dearly.”
Okowa, who worked closely with Cole during his tenure as Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, highlighted Cole’s immense contributions to the development of sports in Delta State.
“Cole’s advice as Special Adviser on sports to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa helped set the pace for sports development in Delta State,” Okowa said. “His legacy will live on, and we will always remember him as a humble, patriotic, wise, and passionate football enthusiast and media professional.”
The Delta State Football Association and the Nigerian sports community at large have been thrown into mourning by Cole’s sudden passing.
Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.
May Steve Cole’s soul rest in eternal peace.
