Former Nigerian women’s national football team goalkeeper, Bidemi Aluko-Olaseni, has passed away after an eight-year battle with breast cancer. She was 33 years old.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the news in a statement, expressing their condolences: “We are sad to hear of the passing of former Super Falcons goalkeeper, Bidemi Aluko-Olaseni after an eight-year battle with cancer. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. May her gentle soul rest in peace.”
Aluko-Olaseni was first diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2017. She underwent treatment, including a mastectomy, and was reportedly given the all-clear a year later. Sadly, the cancer returned, and she continued to fight the disease until her passing.
Aluko-Olaseni represented Nigeria at the senior level, the Super Falcons, between 2012 and 2013. She was also a member of the Falconets, the national U-20 women’s team.
Tributes have poured in from the Nigerian football community and beyond, with many remembering Aluko-Olaseni for her talent, determination, and spirit.
