A member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) identified as Samuel tragically collapsed and passed away while watching the football match between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and South Africa’s Bafana Bafana. The incident occurred during the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) at a Sports Viewing Center (SVC) in Numan, where the corps member was serving in Adamawa State.

An eyewitness shared that the unfortunate event took place before the final shootout that propelled Nigeria into the AFCON final. The corps member, originally from Kaduna, had reportedly fainted before the crucial winning goal kick-off.

The witness expressed the somber atmosphere at the SVC, stating, “We lost one Nigerian a few minutes ago during our victory celebration over South Africa today at our Sports Viewing Center (SVC) here in Numan.” The witness continued, “He died before they could reach the hospital in Numan; may his soul rest in peace.”

Coordinator in Adamawa state, Mr. Jingi Dennis, confirmed the tragic incident during a telephone conversation with the Nigerian Tribune. He stated, “I have received the news of his death last night, I hope to have more details today.” According to the late corps member’s colleagues who were with him to watch the match, he expressed his dislike for penalty shootouts, bowed his head, and suddenly collapsed.

The corps member was subsequently pronounced dead at the General Hospital in Numan by the attending doctor. The NYSC community mourns the loss of Samuel, highlighting the unpredictability of life’s fleeting moments.

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